The Texas Hill Country has been struck by a catastrophic weather event, with a deluge of rain falling in just a few hours, which has led to the tragic loss of at least 13 lives. The sudden and severe flooding has left many residents, including over 20 girls attending a summer camp, unaccounted for, as search and rescue teams mobilize to navigate the treacherous floodwaters using boats and helicopters.

Local residents are turning to social media, desperately seeking news about their loved ones caught in the flood zone. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick reported that, as of Friday, between six and ten bodies had been recovered from the floodwaters, while Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed a somber total of 13 confirmed fatalities. As the situation unfolds, the need for updates and information grows, especially concerning the missing individuals.

According to meteorological reports, central Kerr County experienced over 25 centimeters of rain overnight, which triggered flash flooding along the Guadalupe River. This alarming surge in water levels prompted urgent calls for help and information regarding those who may be trapped or missing. “Some are adults, some are children,” Patrick stated during a press briefing, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Rescue teams have executed numerous operations to save those affected, and authorities are tirelessly searching for those still unaccounted for, including a significant number of girls from summer camps in the area. “I'm asking the people of Texas, do some serious praying this afternoon. On-your-knees kind of praying, that we find these young girls,” Patrick urged, as the urgency of the situation intensified.

The Kerr County sheriff’s office has become a focal point for families seeking information, with many commenting on social media, posting photos of missing persons and asking for updates. Stories of anguish surfaced, as one mother shared her distress about being unable to reach her daughter who was staying in a cabin with her family.

Judge Rob Kelly, the chief elected official in Kerr County, confirmed the fatalities and reported that numerous water rescues were underway. He noted the difficulty in identifying some victims, with officials struggling to ascertain the identities of those who had been recovered. “Most of them, we don’t know who they are,” Kelly lamented, underscoring the tragic uncertainty surrounding the situation.

Among the survivors, Erin Burgess recounted a harrowing experience as floodwaters rapidly overtook her home. She described how, within minutes of hearing thunder, the water began flooding her property and how she and her son clung to a tree for survival. “My son and I floated to a tree where we hung onto it, and my boyfriend and my dog floated away. He was lost for a while, but we found them,” she recalled, her emotions evident as she spoke of the ordeal.

A flood watch had been issued just hours prior, detailing potential rainfall totals of up to 17 centimeters. However, the situation escalated swiftly, resulting in a flood warning affecting more than 30,000 residents. Judge Kelly mentioned the lack of a warning system as a significant concern, stating, “we do not have a warning system” and expressing regret about the inability to foresee such a severe flood event. “Rest assured, no one knew this kind of flood was coming,” he added, emphasizing the unexpected nature of such disasters in the region.

Governor Greg Abbott has pledged state resources to assist communities in the Hill Country facing the aftermath of the flooding, including those in Kerrville, Ingram, and Hunt. The Texas Hill Country, known for its picturesque landscapes and popular outdoor activities, has a history of flash flooding, highlighting the need for preparedness in these vulnerable areas.

Social media has seen an outpouring of concern, with many parents and family members actively searching for information about campers and loved ones who were in the area during the flooding. Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls, reported “catastrophic level floods,” while assuring parents that they are in communication with families regarding their children's safety. Other camps, including Camp Waldemar and Camp La Junta, confirmed that all attendees were safe.

The Guadalupe River’s gauge recorded a staggering rise in water levels, reaching 6.7 meters in just two hours. Meteorologist Bob Fogarty warned of the sudden dangers posed by fast-moving water, stating, “This is the kind of thing that will catch you unaware.” As the waters continue to flow downstream, areas downstream, particularly in Kendall County, are bracing for potential flooding as well.

In a related note, severe weather has also impacted New Jersey, where thunderstorms resulted in at least three fatalities, including two men who tragically lost their lives when a tree fell on their vehicle. Mayor Adrian O. Mapp expressed condolences and described the situation as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable power.