At least 89 people have died as a result of catastrophic flash flooding across central and southern Texas, according to the latest update from local authorities on Monday. In Kerr County alone, 75 bodies have been recovered—48 adults and 27 children—following intense rainfall and flooding in the Hill Country region.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha Jr. confirmed the figures during a press conference, noting that 41 individuals remain missing. Officials urged the public to volunteer if able, in order to support ongoing recovery and search efforts in the affected areas.
Among the victims were 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ summer camp in the flood zone. The camp issued a statement Monday confirming the deaths and said it is working with local and state authorities to assist rescue operations.
The flooding began early Friday, just ahead of Fourth of July weekend festivities, after more than 12 inches (30 cm) of rain fell in less than half a day. The Guadalupe River near Hunt surged to its second-highest level on record at 32.5 feet (9.9 meters), the National Weather Service said. Authorities warn the death toll could rise further in the coming days.
