At least 82 people have died in the recent catastrophic flash floods across Central Texas, primarily in Kerr County, where 68 fatalities have been confirmed, including 28 children. Additionally, around 41 individuals remain missing, many of them campers from Camp Mystic. These floods occurred over the Fourth of July weekend following an intense, slow-moving storm that dumped more than a foot of rain, causing the Guadalupe River to rise dramatically in a matter of hours
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha described the situation as “catastrophic” during a press briefing on Sunday morning. He confirmed that over 400 first responders from at least 20 agencies are currently involved in the search and rescue efforts.
Among the most concerning locations is Camp Mystic, a well-known summer camp situated along the Guadalupe River. Sheriff Leitha stated that 11 of the camp’s 750 young female campers, along with one counselor, remain unaccounted for as of Sunday.
“We will continue our search efforts until everybody is found,” said Sheriff Leitha.
In a direct communication to families, Camp Mystic issued a message of clarity and hope:
“If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified. If you have not been personally contacted, then your daughter is accounted for.”
This message offered a sliver of relief to hundreds of anxious families, but for many, the wait continues.