Search for missing continues as Texas floods kill 51, including 15 children

July 6, 2025

In central Texas, flash floods have killed 51 people, including 15 children, with hundreds of rescuers searching for missing individuals. The most severely impacted area is Kerr County, where 43 people have died and 27 children remain missing from Camp Mystic, a Christian youth camp along the Guadalupe River. Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed an expanded disaster declaration to enhance search efforts, while officials continue rescue operations along the river.

Who is affected

Residents of central Texas counties including Kerr, Travis, and Tom Green
Approximately 750 campers at Camp Mystic, particularly 27 missing girls, many under age 12
Families of the 51 deceased victims, including 15 children
Holidaymakers celebrating Independence Day weekend
Local homeowners and business owners like Lorena Guillen, whose home and restaurant were destroyed
Jonathan and Brittany Rojas' relatives, with a mother and baby still missing
Anthony, a resident who lost all his belongings except childhood photos

What action is being taken

Hundreds of rescuers are searching for missing people along the Guadalupe River
Governor Greg Abbott has signed an expanded disaster declaration to boost search efforts
Search and rescue missions are continuing rather than shifting to recovery operations
About 850 people have been rescued so far
Notre Dame Catholic Church is holding a special Mass on Sunday for victims and their families
The U.S. administration is working closely with local authorities to respond to the emergency

Why it matters

The death toll is significant at 51 people, including 15 children
27 children remain missing from a Christian youth camp
The flooding happened rapidly, with the river rising over 26 feet in less than an hour
Multiple flash flood warnings remain in place, suggesting continued danger
The disaster has destroyed homes, businesses, and displaced numerous people
The flooding occurred during Independence Day weekend when many were vacationing
Victims include young children, with some confirmed dead as young as eight years old

What's next

Additional flooding is forecasted for central Texas this weekend, with 2-5 inches of rain expected Saturday and up to 10 inches possible in already severely affected areas
Flash flood warnings remain in place over the weekend
Officials will continue search efforts until "everyone is found"
A special Mass will be held at Notre Dame Catholic Church on Sunday for victims and families

Read full article from source: BBC