Texas Floods: 110+ Dead, 161 Missing After Historic Disaster

Catastrophic flooding struck Central Texas beginning on July 4, 2025, primarily impacting the Hill Country region, including Kerr County and the Guadalupe River area. The disaster has resulted in over 110 confirmed deaths and left more than 161 people missing as of July 8. The floods were triggered by intense, record-breaking rainfall that caused rivers to rise rapidly, overwhelming communities and summer camps.

Key Facts

• Death Toll: Over 110 confirmed fatalities, including at least 27 children and counselors at Camp Mystic in Kerr County.
• Missing Persons: At least 161 people remain unaccounted for, with ongoing search and rescue operations.
• Affected Areas: Severe impacts in Kerr, Kendall, Burnet, Travis, Williamson, and Tom Green counties. The Guadalupe River rose by more than 26 feet in under an hour.

Emergency Response

• State Action: Governor Greg Abbott deployed more than 1,750 personnel and nearly 1,000 vehicles and equipment from over 20 state agencies.
• Federal Aid: President Donald Trump declared a major disaster, unlocking federal resources for relief and recovery.
• Ongoing Risk: Additional rainfall is forecasted, and flood watches remain in effect for much of Central Texas.

Communication and Alerts

• Emergency Alerts: The National Weather Service issued multiple flash flood warnings, but some residents did not receive alerts due to the lack of a local outdoor warning system and inconsistent cell service.
• Mobile Coverage Issues: Some areas near the Guadalupe River have spotty cell service, which may have prevented some residents from receiving critical alerts.

Aftermath and Community Impact

• Search and Rescue: Hundreds of emergency personnel continue to search for missing persons in challenging conditions.
• Infrastructure Damage: Roads, bridges, and homes have been severely damaged or destroyed.
• Calls for Change: The disaster has intensified calls for improved flood warning systems and greater investment in emergency preparedness.

What Texans Should Know

• Stay Alert: Residents in affected areas should monitor weather updates and follow local guidance.
• Support and Resources: Emergency shelters and assistance are available for displaced families.

This update reflects the situation as of July 8, 2025, and will continue to evolve as search and rescue operations progress.