TEXAS CATASTROPHE: Deadly Flash Floods Leave Campers Missing, Multiple Dead

REPORT: Flash floods in Central Texas have
sparked concern over camper safety as
search-and-rescue efforts intensify. The start of July Fourth has brought “life-threatening flash flooding” to the area, according to NWS. County authorities confirmed an unknown number of fatalities.

Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. has issued a disaster declaration amid “catastrophic” local flooding that has killed at least 13 people on the Fourth of July.

Life-threatening surges along the Guadalupe River swamp summer camps and communities as July Fourth begins with urgent rescues and evacuations.

Torrential overnight rain—up to ten inches in just hours—turned Central Texas rivers into raging torrents, sweeping away roads, vehicles and riverside cabins. Emergency crews confirm an unspecified number of fatalities and dozens of swift-water rescues while authorities search for missing residents and campers.

One girls’ camp along the river alerted parents that some children remain unaccounted for, and reunification centers have been set up in nearby schools for frantic families. Flash-flood emergencies now blanket several counties, with officials urging everyone near creeks or low crossings to shelter on high ground and avoid travel.

The National Weather Service warns the Guadalupe River hit its second-highest crest on record, overwhelming gauges and cutting power to thousands. State resources—boats, helicopters and high-water vehicles—are pouring into the Hill Country as the holiday weekend begins under disaster declarations.

For More Information

• Texas Tribune: Deadly floods, rescues and disaster declarations
• CBS News Texas: Multiple killed, evacuations underway in Kerr County
• KSAT 12 San Antonio: Evacuations and missing campers along Guadalupe River

Watch Local News Reports