Texas Floods Claim Nearly 70 Lives, Including 21 Children, with Search for Missing Girls Ongoing

The death toll from flash floods in Central Texas rose to at least 67 on Sunday. Searchers found 16 bodies in Kerr County, bringing the total to 59, including 21 children. Rescuers continued searching for 11 missing girls from a summer camp. Four deaths were reported in Travis County, three in Burnet, and 1 in Kendall.

Rescuers faced challenging terrain with mangled trees, overturned cars, and debris. Families searched the Camp Mystic area. Authorities did not confirm the total number of missing people beyond the 11 children and a camp counselor. The search was hampered by a new storm.

Damage from natural disasters in Canada reached $8.5 billion in 2024. The search for survivors became increasingly bleak as volunteers and families searched the riverbanks despite warnings. Questions arose about the adequacy of warnings and preparations in the flood-prone area.

Searchers used helicopters, boats, and drones to rescue stranded individuals. Governor Greg Abbott promised continuous search efforts and declared a day of prayer. Pope Leo XIV offered prayers for the victims. The Guadalupe River area is popular for camps and campgrounds, complicating the estimation of missing persons.

Survivors shared harrowing experiences of being swept away by floodwaters. The National Weather Service issued flood warnings before the disaster, but the intensity of the downpour was unexpected. U.S. Representative Chip Roy acknowledged potential scrutiny and blame in the aftermath.