At least 81 dead and dozens missing in Texas floods as more rain looms

July 7, 2025

A devastating flash flood in central Texas has claimed at least 81 lives with 41 people still missing, with Kerr County experiencing the highest number of fatalities, particularly at a Christian girls' camp along the Guadalupe River. The disaster occurred early Friday morning when the river rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes, catching many campers asleep at Camp Mystic, which suffered significant damage. Rescue efforts, one of the largest in recent Texas history, are transitioning to recovery operations as authorities continue searching for victims while contending with challenging conditions including expected additional rainfall and venomous snakes.

Who is affected

Residents of multiple Texas counties including Kerr, Travis, Burnet, Williamson, Kendall, and Tom Green Counties
Children and staff at Camp Mystic, including its director Richard "Dick" Eastland
People camping in the area for the Fourth of July weekend
Homeowners along the Guadalupe River whose properties were damaged
Families of the deceased and missing individuals
Local residents who have been displaced by the flooding

What action is being taken

Rescuers are searching for missing people amid mud and debris
The search and rescue effort is shifting toward a recovery operation
President Trump has signed a major disaster declaration, activating FEMA to assist Texas
Local residents are collecting supplies, offering shelter, and providing meals to those affected
Governor Greg Abbott has committed that authorities will "stop at nothing" to ensure every missing person is found
Areas remain on flood watch until Monday evening as further rainfall is expected

Why it matters

The flash flood has resulted in one of the largest search-and-rescue efforts in recent Texas history
The disaster has claimed at least 81 lives with 41 people still missing, making it a significant humanitarian crisis
The flooding caused extensive property damage with homes ravaged, trees fallen, and utilities disrupted
The sudden rise of the Guadalupe River by 26 feet in just 45 minutes demonstrates the extreme and dangerous nature of flash flooding
The incident has garnered international attention, with the Pope offering special prayers for the bereaved

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC