Flash floods triggered by an unexpected deluge of rain in central Texas have left at least 43 people dead, including 15 children, authorities confirmed on Saturday. The disaster unfolded near the Guadalupe River, roughly 85 miles northwest of San Antonio.
Emergency services have rescued more than 850 people so far, with some clinging to trees and rooftops as waters surged overnight. Officials said as much as 15 inches of rain fell in a short span, rapidly swelling the river to 29 feet.
Among the missing are 27 girls from Camp Mystic, a popular summer camp in Kerrville. “We’re tracking the ‘known missing’—the 27—but there could be others. We simply don’t know yet,” said Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice.
FLOOD STRIKES BEFORE WARNING
The flooding began early Friday morning, catching many off guard. “The river rose faster than anyone expected,” said Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly. “No one saw this coming.”
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed eight of the deceased, including three children, have yet to be identified.
Although the flash flood emergency has now subsided in Kerr County, a flood watch remains in effect for surrounding areas. The National Weather Service faced criticism for not forecasting the intensity of the rain, which fell in amounts equivalent to half the region’s annual total.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem admitted the earlier “moderate” flood warning was insufficient and said the administration is reviewing ways to improve forecasting systems.
Governor Greg Abbott requested a federal disaster declaration, which President Donald Trump has agreed to support. Trump and First Lady Melania extended their condolences on social media, praising first responders for their efforts.
However, concerns have been raised over recent staffing cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which some experts say may have hindered forecasting accuracy.
Camp Mystic had 700 girls on-site when the floods struck. Another nearby camp, Heart O’ the Hills, confirmed that co-owner Jane Ragsdale died, though no campers were present at the time.
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With inputs from Reuters