Texas is grappling with the aftermath of severe flash floods that turned deadly in the early hours of Friday, prompting a relentless search for survivors, especially among the missing children from a youth camp.
Frantic Efforts Continue to Find Victims of Texas Floods Claiming 32 Lives
Frantic Efforts Continue to Find Victims of Texas Floods Claiming 32 Lives
The devastating floods in Texas have led to a desperate search for survivors after the disaster claimed at least 32 lives, including 14 children's lives.
As rescue operations intensify in central Texas, officials confirmed the tragic loss of at least 32 individuals, including 14 children, due to catastrophic flash floods. The Guadalupe River experienced a dangerous surge, hiking over 26 feet (8 meters) within a mere hour while many were still asleep in their homes. Authorities have reported that 27 children from a Christian youth camp situated along the river remain unaccounted for, and despite the rescue of approximately 850 individuals, the situation remains precarious.
With forecasts suggesting that more rain may exacerbate the flooding, officials have expressed their determination to locate every victim, as provided by Texas Governor Greg Abbott at a press conference on Saturday. “This is still a search and rescue mission,” he stated, emphasizing that efforts will continue until they have accounted for all persons affected.
The rescue focus is on Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp near Hunt, Texas, where the majority of the missing children are believed to be. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick informed that many of those missing are younger girls, predominantly under 12 years of age, heightening the urgency among families impacted by the tragedy.
National response is taking shape, with President Donald Trump pledging federal assistance to state efforts. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem joined Abbott in outlining the federal government's commitment, including the deployment of Coast Guard resources to aid in search operations.
In addition, Travis County has reported an additional two fatalities and 10 individuals missing due to the disastrous weather, prompting warnings of further rainfall this weekend, with estimates ranging from 2 to 10 inches possible, putting the recovery efforts under additional strain. The National Weather Service has alerted residents to prepare for ongoing severe conditions as hopes remain pinned on rescue teams.
