Yet Central Texas is dealing with the aftermath, as communities—from floodprone Austin to devastated San Marco—recover from recent intense flash flooding. Sadly, the disaster claimed the lives of 82 people, including 27 campers and counselors from Camp Mystic. Catastrophic flooding occurred as torrential rains moved across the Hill Country region early Friday morning. In a little over 45 minutes, they precipitated the Guadalupe River coming up 26 feet (8 meters)—an epic flood inundation. Donald Trump has since signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, pledging federal assistance as the community mourns.
Floodwaters impacted Camp Mystic like a ton of bricks. This magical, riverside summer camp, nestled on the banks of the beautiful Guadalupe River, was hit hard. In an official announcement from the camp, a total of 68 deaths were reported, including 28 children. Tragically, 10 girls and one camp counselor are still missing as efforts to search for them and, when necessary, recover them continue. Governor Abbott signed an order requiring responders to remain on the scene. They won’t rest until every missing person is found after this horrific incident.
Trump tackled questions about the federal government’s role in disaster response. He announced that he planned to travel to the impacted area on Friday. He took fire over the consequences of federal sequester cuts on transportation. Did they slow disaster response or leave critical positions empty at the Weather Service? Throughout, Trump sought to fend off the idea by blaming broader systemic conditions.
Meanwhile, the race against time to find survivors is escalating. Local law enforcement is continuing to look hard to locate the last of the people associated with Camp Mystic. The camp has expressed its heartfelt condolences to affected families, stating, “Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly.”
During the town hall, local official Nim Kidd expressed worries about the increased risk of flooding in the region. We’re in the process of evacuating areas of the river at this moment. We’re worried about a second wall of water going through those same communities,” he added.
Pope Francis likewise expressed his condolences to the victims of the disaster. He lamented, though, “the tragedies suffered by many families who have lost loved ones.” He focused most on the anguish experienced by those linked to the summer camp. “To everyone who has lost family and friends, I extend my deep sympathy,” he said.
The horror of Friday has shaken all of us to our core. As the recovery from the disaster continues, the impact of this ongoing support is clear and urgent. The camp began with a focus on loving gratitude for the support given by first responders and officials at all levels of government. “We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from community, first responders, and officials at every level,” they stated.
Meanwhile, as first responders recover the victims and begin to assist families impacted by this tragedy, the death toll is still climbing. Eighteen adults and ten children are still under investigation by state officials. In response, the community expresses a deep sense of urgency.