Devastation unfolded along the Guadalupe River in Texas’ Kerrville on Saturday morning following a “deadly flood wave” that swept a 20-foot surge of water several miles downstream, resulting in at least 32 fatalities and numerous individuals still unaccounted for, including girls from a summer camp. Local authorities anticipate the death toll to increase in the days ahead. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha expressed condolences, while Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for over a dozen counties in the Texas Hill Country, labeling the flooding in Kerr County as catastrophic. A private Christian summer camp, Camp Mystic, located near Hunt, indicated that 27 children were missing due to the catastrophic floods. Mayor Joe Herring Jr. of Kerrville urged the community to pray. State resources, including over 1,000 responders, 800 vehicles, and support from 15 agencies, have been mobilized to address the flooding crisis. Search operations are challenging due to destroyed roads and debris, requiring crews to navigate rough terrain along the riverbanks. Witnesses described the scene as devastating, with homes swept away and foundations left bare. Residents recounted being caught off guard by the sudden floodwaters, emphasizing the urgency and shock of the situation. The community is urged to contact a designated number for assistance in locating missing family members. The flood was triggered by intense thunderstorms that dumped significant rainfall over the region, causing widespread damage and loss of life.
A total of 12.72 inches of rain was recorded. Heavy rainfall moved slowly to the south and east, depositing 5-8 inches of rain in the Guadelupe River basin, leading to a rapid rise in water levels downstream.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Flash Flood Emergency on Friday morning, warning of a large and dangerous flood wave moving down the Guadalupe River. Flash flooding was already occurring from Center Point to Sisterdale, posing a significant threat. Immediate evacuation to higher ground was strongly advised.
River gauges showed a drastic increase in water levels along the Guadalupe River. Within just an hour, the water level surged 20 feet in Kerrville and almost 27 feet in Comfort, reaching historic levels not seen in nearly a century. The sudden flood caught many residents off guard, with Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly expressing surprise at the severity of the event.
The torrential rains caused damaging floods in neighboring counties, with San Angelo and Brady reporting significant water rescues and flooding. The situation was described as surreal by local residents, emphasizing the sudden and unexpected nature of the disaster.
Although the rainfall had subsided in Kerr County by Saturday morning, central Texas was still experiencing life-threatening rain. Flash Flood Emergencies were declared in Burnet, Williamson, and Travis Counties, north of Austin, with additional heavy rainfall and high water levels posing risks to communities.
Authorities in Georgetown evacuated multiple buildings along the San Gabriel River as waters continued to rise dangerously. Further rainfall was anticipated, with the NWS urging residents to remain vigilant and seek safety as the storms persisted.
The Weather Prediction Center issued a Level 2 flash flood risk for the area, with Flood Watches in effect through Saturday evening. The ongoing situation mirrored a devastating flash flood event in 1987, underscoring the urgent need for preparedness and response in the face of extreme weather events.
Catastrophic flooding results in at least 32 fatalities, with dozens still missing as a ‘deadly flood surge’ hits central Texas.
