Devastating floods in Texas leave 13 dead and dozens missing across south-central US.

HOUSTON, July 5 — At least 13 people have died after flash floods struck south-central Texas early Friday, officials confirmed, with over 20 girls from a summer camp still missing.

“We’ve confirmed 13 fatalities,” Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said during a press briefing, following severe floods that swept through areas northwest of San Antonio. He added that the death toll could rise.

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick noted that some of the victims were children. He said approximately 23 girls remain unaccounted for from Camp Mystic, located along the Guadalupe River, which surged 26 feet (about eight meters) in just 45 minutes overnight.

“That doesn’t mean they’re lost. They could be in trees, or simply out of communication,” Patrick emphasized.

Patrick also read a message from the summer camp’s director, which described the flooding as “catastrophic.” The camp, hosting around 750 campers for the July 4 holiday, currently has no power, water, or internet access.

Authorities are urging the public to avoid the affected area, which includes campgrounds along the Guadalupe River. Dozens of roads have been declared impassable.

Dramatic videos circulating on social media show homes and trees being swept away by flash floods, triggered by more than 12 inches of overnight rainfall—roughly one-third of Kerr County’s typical yearly total.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott posted a video on X showing a rescue operation where a person was airlifted from the top of a tree as floodwaters surged below.

‘Another wave coming’

“Rescue operations like this are ongoing around the clock. We will not stop until everyone is found,” Governor Abbott said.

Freeman Martin, director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, labeled the situation a “mass casualty event.” Approximately 500 rescue personnel and 14 helicopters have been mobilized, with support from the Texas National Guard and US Coast Guard.

Although the rain has momentarily subsided, Martin warned of a second round of storms expected to hit areas near San Antonio and Austin.

“We didn’t know this flood was coming,” Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly said, noting that the region is prone to flooding. “This is the most dangerous river valley in the United States,” he added, referencing the Guadalupe River.

A flood warning remains in effect for Kerr County, with forecasters urging residents near the river to seek higher ground.

Just last month, flash floods caused by heavy rain killed at least 10 people in San Antonio. — AFP