Texas Flood Catastrophe: Death Toll Reaches 50, Numerous Campers Still Unaccounted For
On Saturday, rescue teams continued their search for 27 girls reported missing from a summer camp situated along a river in Texas. The search follows severe floods triggered by heavy rains, which have resulted in the deaths of 50 individuals across the state.
Central Texas continues to be under multiple flash flood warnings as communities experience dramatic water surges. The Guadalupe River saw a significant rise, increasing by 26 feet, or eight meters, in a mere 45 minutes, according to AFP reports.
A summer camp in Kerr County was left in a state of disarray, as blankets, teddy bears, and various personal items were found coated in mud.
Authorities in Kerr County have reported the recovery of 43 bodies following recent flooding. According to Sheriff Larry Leitha, the deceased comprise 28 adults and 15 children.
In a tragic development, authorities have discovered several victims in various counties, raising the death toll to 50.
Nim Kidd, head of the Texas Department of Emergency Management, reported that air, ground, and water crews are conducting extensive searches along the Guadalupe River for survivors and to recover any deceased individuals.
He stated that the search efforts will persist until every individual reported missing has been located.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced an expansion of the state disaster declaration and sought further federal resources from Trump.
The inundation commenced on Friday, coinciding with the onset of the Fourth of July holiday weekend, as several months of rainfall descended within a few short hours.
The National Weather Service has issued a warning indicating that additional rainfall is anticipated, which may lead to excessive runoff and potential flooding in rivers, creeks, streams, and other flood-prone or low-lying areas.
On Saturday in Kerrville, the normally tranquil Guadalupe River surged with speed, its muddy waters teeming with debris.
Gerardo Martinez, a 61-year-old resident, reported that floodwaters surged to the treetops, rising approximately 10 meters. He described scenes of entire houses and cars being swept away by the force of the river.
Flash floods, precipitated by the ground’s inability to soak up heavy rainfall, are a common occurrence.
Recent analyses by scientists indicate that human-induced climate change has significantly increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including floods, droughts, and heatwaves, in recent years.
