Central Texas is still recovering from devastating floods after an onslaught of nonstop, heavy rain inundated the area. The flooding came abuse during the US Independence Day holiday on July 4. The floods have already taken at least 78 lives, including 28 children, shocking the nation and leading to a massive, ongoing rescue operation.
The atmospheric river event started Friday, drenching the region with up to 7 inches of rain, causing floodwaters to rise rapidly. Timelapse video from Kingsland, Texas shows how quickly waters rose over a causeway. The entire causeway was underwater within minutes. These dramatic and heartbreaking images are a reminder of nature’s enormous strength. As we can tell from their beautiful photos, they capture the hazards that accompany severe weather events.
Following the eruption, rescue teams half-heartedly searched for girls who had been missing since a local summer camp when the ground literally opened up underneath them. Their mission has taken on a new urgency as concern over additional flooding increases. Because of this tragic circumstance, it has necessitated the evacuation of the volunteer responders working in the area. As the community continues to mourn and evaluate, they stay on guard with predictions still calling for additional rainfall.
The floods have been devastating to families and communities across the flood ravaged area in central Texas. The incredible loss of life, especially children, has left millions mourning and in search of answers, meaning and justice. Local authorities continue to assess the situation and coordinate rescue operations, emphasizing their commitment to finding those who remain unaccounted for.
As rescue efforts continue, officials are reminding residents to follow safety protocols and stay out of flooded areas. The rapid onset of extreme floodwaters in communities across the country has deeply underscored the importance of being prepared and informed amid the dangers of natural disasters.