Kerr County Devastating Floods: 25 Dead, Children Missing, Rescue Efforts Underway

Devastating Flooding in Kerr County

• ⚠️ Kerr County experienced "life-threatening flash flooding" on July Fourth, leading to the cancellation of local holiday celebrations and a disaster declaration by the mayor.
• 💧 The Guadalupe River levels rose an alarming 26 feet in just over 45 minutes, with the heaviest rain occurring between 3:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.
• 🌳 Witnesses reported waking up to the sounds of cracking and breaking trees as the river became swollen and fast-moving.

Reunification and Unaccounted For

• 🏫 Ingram Elementary School served as a reunification center where families anxiously sought answers about their children.
• 😥 Some families reunited with their children, while others are still holding onto hope for their loved ones' safety.
• 💔 The latest reports indicate 25 people have died, with more than 20 children from Camp Mystic unaccounted for.

Rescue and Response Efforts

• 🚁 Governor Greg Abbott pledged to use all available assets, including personnel, planes, and resources, for rescue operations.
• 📡 Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick stated that the search will continue until everyone is found, emphasizing a commitment to full accountability.
• 🚤 The ongoing response includes the use of helicopters, drones, 30 boats, and five helicopters, with 400 state employees already deployed and more expected.
• ⛈️ Authorities are bracing for another band of storms expected tonight and in the early afternoon, which could further complicate rescue efforts.