Texas Flood Tragedy: 161 Missing, Over 100 Dead in Central Texas Disaster
Central Texas is reeling after catastrophic flash floods claimed at least 110 lives and left 161 people missing, in what is now the deadliest rainfall-driven flood event in the U.S. since 1976.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott confirmed the staggering numbers on Tuesday, including five campers and a counselor from Camp Mystic, a private all-girls summer camp devastated by flooding along the Guadalupe River.
The massive flood swept through six counties, surpassing previous records set by Hurricane Helene and causing widespread destruction across central Texas communities.
💧 Flash Floods Catch Communities Off Guard
The flooding struck in the early hours of July 4, submerging neighborhoods, displacing families, and sweeping away vehicles in pitch-black conditions.
Lorena Guillen, a local restaurant owner, recalled hearing screams in the darkness:
“You could hear kids screaming, asking for help. Cars were floating away with the lights on. It was horrifying.”
🚁 Rescue Operations Stretch Thin
Search efforts—spanning over 60 miles from Kerr to Comal counties—are being led by local, state, federal, and international rescue teams, including the Arkansas National Guard and crews from Mexico.
As of Tuesday, the last confirmed live rescue occurred on Friday.
Firefighter Jesus Gomez shared the emotional toll:
“It’s hard. There’s a lot of mental weight… but this is what we do.”
A U.S. Coast Guard swimmer, Petty Officer Scott Ruskin, is credited with saving 165 people at Camp Mystic during a daring mission in coordination with the Army National Guard.
🛑 Drones Disrupt Rescue Operations
Emergency officials have warned residents to avoid flying drones, after a collision between a private drone and a search-and-rescue helicopter forced an emergency landing and took the aircraft out of service.
📉 Floodwaters Break Records
According to meteorologist Jeff Lindner, the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes, later peaking at over 37 feet in Hunt—breaking a record set in 1932.
In Kerrville, a gauge recorded a peak of 34 feet, the third highest in history for the area.
💔 Camp Mystic Among Worst-Hit
Camp Mystic reported losing 27 campers and counselors. The camp stated:
“Our hearts are broken. We’re praying for all the families.”
Young survivor Elinor Lester, 13, said:
“The camp was completely destroyed. A helicopter came and started taking people away. It was terrifying.”
🌤️ Weather Offers Some Relief
Forecasters expect scattered thunderstorms Tuesday and Wednesday, but dry conditions Thursday and Friday could offer relief to rescue teams. However, weekend storms may return, slowing progress again.
🆘 Federal Assistance Activated
President Donald Trump has signed a major disaster declaration, deploying FEMA to support operations. Texas has also declared a disaster across 21 counties.
💬 Stories of Survival and Solidarity
Despite the devastation, many residents have started to return and begin cleanup. Survivors are helping neighbors and leaning on each other for strength.
One woman from Georgetown shared:
“People brought food, offered to help. It’s good to know Texans come together in a time like this.”
