A devastating case of Austin flooding on the Fourth of July has left at least 24 people dead and dozens more missing as torrential rains caused rivers to overflow and wash away parts of the Texas Hill Country.
Search and rescue teams have been working around the clock, using helicopters, drones, and boats to comb through submerged areas in and around Kerr County, about 100 miles west of Austin.
Austin Flooding Kills 24 in Kerr County
The death toll from the Austin flooding disaster has climbed to 24, according to officials who spoke during a Friday night press conference. Though the identities of the victims have not been made public, authorities say the number may rise as search crews continue operations.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for affected areas, calling the flooding “one of the most tragic events in recent Texas history.”
Summer Camp Horror: Camp Mystic Girls Still Missing
One of the most heartbreaking developments from the Austin flooding involves Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp in Hunt, Texas, located near the swollen Guadalupe River. As of Friday night, approximately two dozen girls from the camp were still unaccounted for.
Officials say everyone at the 18 other summer camps along the river has been located, but Camp Mystic remains a focal point in the search operations.
237 Rescued, Many by Helicopter
Major General Thomas M. Suelzer of the Texas Military Department confirmed that 237 people had been evacuated or rescued as of Friday evening. More than two-thirds of those rescues were conducted using helicopters, as rising water trapped residents in homes, on rooftops, and even in trees.
At least 14 helicopters, 12 drones, and more than 500 personnel have been deployed to respond to the Austin flooding, which officials say could continue into Saturday as search efforts extend overnight.
“Nonstop” Rescue Efforts Underway
Governor Abbott emphasized the urgency of the situation, saying search and rescue teams would be operating “nonstop” to find missing residents.
The terrain is rugged, the currents are fasr, and the devastation is unlike anything we’ve seen in recent years. Abbott noted.
Families in Agony: Parents Awair News
The emotional toll of the Austin flooding is being felt across the region. Many families have taken to social media, posting photos of missing children and loved ones. Two mothers of Camp Mystic attendees told CNN they are enduring an agonizing wait for update, clinging to hope amid uncertainty.
Trump Vows Federal Support
President Donald Trump addressed the Austin flooding disaster Friday night from Air Force One, saying, “We’ll take care of them.” He confirmed that federal agencies are coordinating with Texas officials and pledged full support for ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.
“This is terrible and shocking,” Trump added. “We are fully committed to helping the people of Texas through this crisis.”
With Austin flooding causing record river levels and widespread destruction, the coming days will be critical. Authorities warn residents to stay off roads and away from flood-prone areas. The National Weather Service has kept flood watches active for parts of the region as more rain may fall.
As recovery and relief efforts ramp up, the true scope of damage from the Austin flooding will become clearer. For now, the focus remains on saving lives.
