Rescue operations continue in central Texas after catastrophic flooding submerged camp cabins up to their roofs, trapped residents in mobile homes, and overwhelmed vehicles in the early hours of July 4. The disaster has resulted in at least 52 fatalities, including 15 children, many of whom were asleep when the floodwaters surged. Among the deceased are two young sisters, aged 11 and 13, and a 27-year-old man who lost his life attempting to save family members.
Approximately twenty-four girls remain unaccounted for at Camp Mystic, a Christian camp located on the Guadalupe River. Rescue teams are facing challenges due to persistent heavy rain, with some areas forecasted to receive up to 10 inches more rainfall throughout the day. Millions across Texas remain under flood watches, though meteorologists anticipate the downpours to subside by evening.
Residents reported receiving minimal advance warning before floodwaters struck. Kerr County, the hardest-hit region northwest of San Antonio, reportedly lacked a flood warning system. Officials noted vacancies in key roles at the local National Weather Service office, raising concerns that staffing shortages may have impeded timely alerts.
Families connected to Camp Mystic have been sharing photos of missing children online, praying, and exchanging hopeful messages amid the crisis. In a recent rescue, a young woman was found clinging to a tree after being swept away while camping with relatives approximately 20 miles upriver.
The governor of Texas visited the devastated camp, describing the scene as "horrendously ravaged." He pledged unwavering commitment to locating every missing person despite acknowledging that the search may be prolonged. "We will be relentless," he affirmed. Federal authorities have also pledged assistance in the ongoing response.
Officials have somberly acknowledged that as time elapses, the chances of locating survivors decrease significantly.
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