24 dead, 25 children missing after flood hits Camp Mystic

There were reportedly some 700 children staying at Camp Mystic when it was inundated by the Guadalupe River in the early hours of Friday, US central time. 13-year-old Elinor Lester, who was staying at the site, mentioned that the camp was completely destroyed. A helicopter landed to evacuate people, which was described as a scary experience. Lester shared that a storm woke up her cabin around 1.30am, and rescuers arrived to help them cross a bridge with floodwaters around their calves and knees.

Camp Mystic assured parents via email that all children were accounted for unless directly contacted. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick mentioned at a news conference that the missing children might be out of communication rather than lost. The campsite staff reported experiencing catastrophic flooding with no power, water, or Wi-Fi. The Guadalupe River rose rapidly, prompting warnings of further flooding in west and central Texas.

Parents shared photos of missing girls on social media, with reports of dramatic rescues circulating. However, some families received devastating news that their daughters had not been located among the washed-away camp cabins and fallen trees. President Donald Trump described the floods as shocking and terrible, promising federal aid.

Camp Mystic, situated on the banks of the Guadalupe River, aims to provide a Christian environment for young girls to develop personal qualities and self-esteem. The camp, in operation for nearly a century, attracts families from Texas and beyond. Nearby Camp La Junta for boys confirmed the safety of its campers but faced evacuation challenges.

Efforts were underway to evacuate children from the flooded area, with local officials and community organizations working to assist. The disaster response included the use of an elementary school in Ingram as a reunification center. Camp Mystic's location in 'flash flood alley' exacerbated the situation, according to local authorities.