27 confirmed dead in Texas as floods recede

Some 27 people, including nine children, have been confirmed dead after flash floods in central Texas, US. Rescuers are searching for survivors, including dozens missing from a girls’ summer camp.

The sheriff’s office in Kerr County, Texas, evacuated over 800 people as flood waters receded around the Guadalupe River, about 137 kilometers northwest of San Antonio.

At least 23 to 25 people from Camp Mystic summer camp are missing, mostly young girls. The US National Weather Service reported the flash flood emergency has largely ended for Kerr County after thunderstorms dumped a foot of rain. A flood watch remains in effect until 7pm.

Kerr County, in the Texas Hill Country, is known for its rugged terrain and historic towns. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick mentioned up to 500 rescue workers are searching for missing individuals who were in the area for an Independence Day celebration.

President Donald Trump stated the federal government is working with state and local officials. Dalton Rice, city manager for Kerrville, mentioned the extreme flooding occurred before dawn with no warning, hindering advance evacuation orders.

State emergency management officials had warned of heavy rains and flash flood threats. The disaster is reminiscent of a catastrophic 1987 Guadalupe River flood where 10 teenagers drowned.

According to the source: Dawn.