At least 27 are dead and dozens remain missing after floodwaters swept through Texas Hill Country.
At least 27 people, including nine children, have died after a powerful flash flood swept through Texas Hill Country, prompting a massive rescue operation for dozens still missing, including over 20 children from Camp Mystic.
The Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes before dawn Friday, submerging homes and campsites. Helicopters, boats, and drones were deployed to locate victims and rescue stranded residents.
Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice said at least 27 people remain unaccounted for from the camp. “People need to know today will be a hard day,” added Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring, Jr.
Campers described terrifying scenes. “The camp was completely destroyed,” said 13-year-old Elinor Lester.
Despite earlier flood warnings from meteorologists, officials said they did not anticipate such extreme rainfall.
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said alerts were issued, while Kerr County officials admitted they lacked a local warning system.
President Trump extended condolences, calling it a “horrible tragedy.” Rescue efforts continue as storms linger.