At least 13 people have died and dozens more are missing after sudden flash floods struck the Guadalupe River area in Kerr County, Texas, on Friday, following severe thunderstorms and up to 12 inches (30 cm) of rain. Local authorities are continuing rescue operations as floodwaters swept through roads, homes, and a summer camp hosting more than 700 children.
Officials said around 20 to 23 girls remain unaccounted for after rising waters inundated the campgrounds near Kerrville, approximately 65 kilometers northwest of San Antonio. “Everyone is doing everything they can to get these children to safety,” said Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly in a press briefing, withholding further casualty figures until more is confirmed.
City administrator Dalton Rice said the flooding struck at dawn with no warning, making evacuation impossible. “This happened in under two hours — it couldn’t even be picked up on radar,” he said.
Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick said his office is coordinating with state emergency teams as rescue efforts continue. More rainfall is forecast over the next 24 to 48 hours, raising fears of additional flash floods from San Antonio to Waco and across central and west Texas.
