A deadly flood has devastated the Texas Hill Country after heavy rains caused the Guadalupe River to overflow. At least 13 people are confirmed dead, and that number is expected to rise. First responders are still working around the clock to rescue people trapped in trees, stuck in their homes, or missing altogether.
The flooding began late at night, catching many residents off guard. Families woke up to rising water, forcing people to grab what they could and evacuate in a panic. One local described it as something they’ve never seen before: “I grabbed my wallet and keys and just ran. I’ve never had to evacuate like this.”
Kerr County officials confirmed the 13 deaths and warned that more fatalities are likely. The most heartbreaking part of this disaster involves Camp Mystic, a summer camp along the river. Officials say 23 children are currently unaccounted for. Rescue crews, including helicopters, are actively searching for them.
The flood has completely transformed familiar landmarks. In Kerrville, trees have been ripped from the ground by the force of the river. Amanda Henderson, a reporter on the scene, said, “This is nothing like the park I visited last year. It’s completely destroyed. The water’s power is unbelievable.”
Local residents, like Joseph, born and raised in Kerrville, are in shock. “It’s just sad,” he said. “We get rain here, but I never imagined it would be this bad. So many families are hurting, especially those with missing loved ones.”
The floodwaters have started to go down in some areas, but danger still remains. More rain is expected, and the rivers are still at major flood levels. Rain totals in Kerrville show up to 12 inches have fallen over the last day.
The storm’s impact has spread far beyond Kerrville. In nearby towns and even Houston, families are desperately trying to contact loved ones in the flood zone. Poor cell service and power outages are making that even harder.
One couple from League City, Brad and Tina Perry, were camping in an RV park when the flood hit. Tina was found and is in the hospital recovering, but Brad is still missing. He managed to call his son from a tree before losing contact. “I’m in a tree. Your mom is gone. I gotta go,” were the last words he said.
Reunification centers have been set up to help families find each other. If you’re looking for someone, the Red Cross can be contacted at 800-733-2767. Locations like Ingram Elementary and the Arcadia Live Theater in Kerrville are also open to help reconnect loved ones.
Help is coming in from all over Texas. Houston’s Fire Department has sent a team, and other emergency responders from Montgomery County and beyond are on the ground. They’re joining hundreds of local and state agencies working to rescue those still in danger.
The rain has hit hardest in hilly areas, making flash flooding even more dangerous. The Guadalupe River has reached major flood stages, but experts say Canyon Lake, which the river flows into, may help reduce some of the damage. The lake is currently low due to drought and can absorb extra water, which could prevent more flooding downstream in places like New Braunfels.
President Donald Trump, speaking from Air Force One, called the situation “terrible” and pledged federal support. “They don’t even know how many people yet,” he said. “But it looks like some young people have died. We’re working with the governor, and we’ll take care of them.”
The death toll has now reached at least 24, according to Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha.
This is a developing story. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and communities across Texas are praying for more survivors to be found. As the rain continues, so does the heartbreak—and the hope that more lives can still be saved.