July 7, 2025 – Kerrville, Texas

Central Texas is grappling with the aftermath of a historic flash flood that struck the Hill Country region on July 4, 2025. Triggered by heavy rains linked to the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry, the disaster overwhelmed the Guadalupe River, causing severe flooding, destruction, and tragic loss of life.

Sudden Surge: Guadalupe River’s Rapid Rise Catches Many Off Guard

In an astonishingly short span, the Guadalupe River swelled by 26 feet within 45 minutes, unleashing a powerful torrent that breached flood barriers and submerged entire neighborhoods. The speed and intensity of the flood left residents with little time to react, resulting in widespread damage and numerous casualties.

Heartbreak at Camp Mystic: Lives Lost and a Community in Shock

Among the hardest hit was Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls near Hunt, Texas. The floodwaters swept through the camp’s grounds, claiming the lives of at least 27 campers and staff members, including the beloved camp director, Dick Eastland, who heroically tried to evacuate those in his care.

One of the victims was 9-year-old Janie Hunt, a relative of Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt, who was attending camp for the first time. Her loss has deeply affected families and the wider community alike.

Race to Rescue: Authorities Continue Searching for Missing

Emergency response teams from local, state, and federal agencies have conducted extensive search and rescue operations, saving over 850 people from floodwaters to date. Efforts are ongoing to locate those still unaccounted for, with helicopters, boats, and drones deployed despite challenging weather conditions.

Lessons in Preparedness: Calls for Improved Warning Systems

The tragedy has exposed critical weaknesses in flood preparedness and early warning infrastructure. Many residents said they received no advance notice of the rapidly rising waters. Kerr County officials have acknowledged prior difficulties in securing funding for flood warning systems, highlighting a pressing need to improve disaster readiness.

President Donald Trump has declared a federal disaster area for the hardest-hit counties, triggering federal aid and support for recovery.

Strength in Unity: Texans Band Together to Rebuild

Despite the devastation, the spirit of Texas Hill Country remains strong. Community groups, volunteers, and neighbors have mobilized to provide shelter, supplies, and comfort to those displaced.

Texas native and actor Matthew McConaughey has urged the nation to support relief efforts through his Just Keep Livin’ Foundation, emphasizing the power of unity during times of hardship.

As recovery continues, Texans across the Hill Country are focused on healing, rebuilding, and strengthening resilience against future disasters.