Devastating flash floods triggered by torrential rains in central Texas have claimed the lives of at least 50 people, according to CNN. The disaster has prompted large-scale rescue operations and emergency declarations, as local and federal agencies scramble to assist those affected.
The floods, which struck with little warning, were the result of a month’s worth of rain falling within just a few hours overnight into Friday. Kerr County was among the worst-hit areas, where more than 20 girls reportedly went missing from Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp. The nearby river surged over 20 feet in under two hours, authorities said.
Hundreds of people across the region have been evacuated or rescued—many by helicopter—as water levels overwhelmed homes, roads, and infrastructure.
US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem assured the public of rapid and ongoing rescue efforts. In a late-night video message posted on X, she stated, “The number one priority right now is people—making sure we are finding them as fast as possible and returning them to their families.”
Noem also confirmed that the U.S. Coast Guard has saved or assisted in rescuing 223 people so far. She praised the coordinated efforts between state and federal agencies, adding that President Biden is being provided real-time updates and is committed to deploying all available resources.
“Our hearts are with those impacted by the Central Texas floods,” Noem wrote. “God bless Texas.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott echoed this sentiment and declared Sunday, July 6, a Day of Prayer for the victims and communities affected by the disaster.
“I invite Texans to join me in prayer for the communities affected by this disaster,” he posted on X.
Governor Abbott also signed an expanded federal disaster declaration to include additional areas such as Travis County, which lies about 130 miles from the severely impacted Kerr County. This move is expected to accelerate the flow of federal aid and relief efforts across the state.
As rescue operations continue around the clock, officials remain focused on locating the missing and ensuring the safety of all affected residents.
