The state of Texas is reeling from a tragedy as 27 girls have gone missing from a Christian summer camp, swept away by devastating floods that have claimed at least 32 lives, including nine children, according to the latest report from CNN. The disaster unfolded in the early hours of Friday when the Guadalupe River suddenly burst its banks following heavy rainfall, engulfing cabins, vehicles, and mobile homes where people were celebrating the Fourth of July.
The rushing waters overwhelmed Camp Mystic, a Christian camp for girls founded in 1926, located in Hunt along the riverbanks, where water levels rose over 20 feet in less than two hours. Authorities have confirmed that over 25 girls remain missing after the camp's collapse; most of them are between the ages of eight and ten. Tragically, the families of three young girls have already confirmed their deaths.
Camp Mystic and Its Legacy
With more than 750 campers enrolled this season, Camp Mystic is well-known for fostering spiritual and personal growth in a Christian environment, where lifelong friendships are formed. The camp's website showcases a sprawling campus by the river, with photos of girls playing tennis, enjoying water activities, and horseback riding.
In an email to parents, the camp administration stated that families who have not been contacted directly are considered part of the "unaccounted" group. Parents have expressed their anguish on social media over the lack of communication regarding their daughters since Friday morning. Some were later found safe, but were stranded for hours without a way to communicate due to infrastructure failures.
Impact of the Floods
The area was left without electricity, running water, or Internet access. Additionally, the main road leading to the camp was destroyed by the floodwaters. The river's overflow was rapid and severe: the water level surged nearly 26 feet in just 45 minutes, so quickly that evacuation orders could not be issued in time.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick described the event as a "destructive flood that took properties and, heartbreakingly, lives." Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly admitted there was no prior evacuation because "no one knew this flood was coming," acknowledging the region lacks an adequate alert system. He noted that the devastation surpassed even the 1987 flood that claimed the lives of ten teenagers in a similar incident.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Over 850 people have been rescued so far, 167 of them by helicopter. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, utilizing drones, boats, and search dogs. County Sheriff Larry Leitha stated that "they will not stop until every person is found." Bodies have been discovered in vehicles swept away by the river. Leitha revealed that among the victims, six adults and one child remain unidentified.
A state of emergency has been declared in several central-southern Texas areas, including Hill Country and the Concho Valley. The National Weather Service reported over 12 inches of rainfall in just 12 hours, far exceeding initial forecasts of 8 inches. The local community has criticized the lack of preparedness and foresight from both the camp and the authorities. One mother, whose daughter was found, told the media that "they should have been aware" of the flood risk, as alerts had been issued days prior.
Official Response: Trump and Kristi Noem
President Donald Trump called the tragedy "heart-wrenching" and "terrible," pledging full federal assistance. During a Saturday appearance, he offered condolences to affected families and stated he is closely monitoring rescue efforts. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praised local first responders and affirmed that the federal government "is on its way to provide the maximum possible support." She emphasized that local teams are crucial as they understand the terrain and dynamics of the region. Meanwhile, Senator Ted Cruz declared that Trump has "committed to providing everything Texas needs."
As rain continues to fall in the region, with new flood threats downstream, the priority remains to locate all missing persons and ensure families receive answers. Camp Mystic, a symbol of tradition and faith for generations of Texan girls, is now marked by a tragedy that has shaken the entire nation.
FAQs About Texas Flood Tragedy
How many people have been rescued so far?
More than 850 people have been rescued, with 167 of those rescues carried out by helicopters.
What measures are being taken to find the missing girls?
Search and rescue operations are using drones, boats, and search dogs to locate the missing individuals.
What is the status of Camp Mystic after the flood?
Camp Mystic has been devastated by the flood, with significant damage to its infrastructure and ongoing search efforts for missing campers.
What has been the community's reaction to the flood?
The local community has criticized the lack of preparedness by the camp and authorities, citing previous flood alerts that went unheeded.