Catastrophic flooding in central Texas has claimed at least 70 lives, including 21 children, after the Guadalupe River surged 26 feet due to torrential rains.
The devastating flood that raised the Guadalupe River by 26 feet has claimed at least 70 lives, including 21 children, in central Texas, with rescue efforts ongoing as of Sunday.
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The disaster, which began early Friday, has devastated the region, particularly Kerr County, where the majority of fatalities occurred. Rescue operations continue as authorities grapple with the aftermath of the sudden deluge.
Among the victims are 11 girls and one counselor still missing from Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp along the river, officials reported.
The flooding, fueled by intense storms, caught many residents and campers off guard, with water levels rising rapidly in less than an hour.
Emergency teams are still assessing the full scope of the damage, with reports indicating the death toll may rise as search efforts persist.
Search and rescue operations, involving helicopters, boats, and ground teams, have continued into their fourth day, though hopes of finding survivors diminish as debris and damaged infrastructure complicate efforts.
Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of emergency, and President Donald Trump has signed a federal disaster declaration to mobilize additional resources.
The death toll is expected to rise as authorities work to identify victims and locate the missing amid ongoing rain threats. Families of the campers remain in anguish, with community support growing as the region grapples with the tragedy.