Texas National Guard Deployed as Floods Claim Lives and Displace Campers
The Texas National Guard was activated on Friday following severe flooding that resulted in the deaths of over a dozen individuals and raised concerns for numerous children at a local Christian camp.
Torrential rain early Friday caused the Guadalupe River to swell dramatically, increasing by almost 30 feet in just a matter of 45 minutes. Officials have reported a minimum of 13 fatalities, which include both adults and children.
As of now, around 20 children from Camp Mystic are unaccounted for, according to Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick. The camp, which hosted more than 750 attendees, is currently undergoing evacuation operations via helicopter.
Kerrville’s Mayor Joe Herring Jr. has declared a disaster in response to the emergency evacuations. Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced in a statement via X that the state is directing all necessary resources for flood response efforts. Abbott emphasized that the primary focus is on ensuring safety and saving lives through various means, including water rescue teams and sheltering facilities.
Senator Ted Cruz also took to X, urging the public for support and prayers, particularly for those affected around Camp Mystic. He mentioned that he has been in contact with Governor Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Patrick, and the head of the Texas Division of Emergency Management, reporting that multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue missions.
Lieutenant Governor Patrick advised parents to refrain from attempting to reach the area due to treacherous road conditions. He acknowledged the emotional distress for parents and assured them that as soon as it’s feasible, buses will be ready to transport the campers to a safe reunion point.
As of 3 p.m. Eastern Time, nearly 3,000 residents in the area were reported to be without power, according to the Kerrville Public Utility Board. Local funeral homes have expressed being overwhelmed by the aftermath of the disaster.
The Kerrville Police Department indicated that a local Walmart has been designated as a temporary reunification center, with additional shelters activated for those displaced. Assistance from the Red Cross is currently underway in the area.
Requests for further comments from local officials, including Kerr County Judge Rob Kelley and the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office, were not met immediately.
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