A devastating flash flood has struck central Texas, triggering a desperate search for more than 25 missing girls at Camp Mystic in Kerr County. Authorities report that the Guadalupe River surged more than 20 feet in less than two hours following intense rainfall, catching many off guard and overwhelming local emergency systems. The catastrophic event has left at least 27 people dead, including nine children, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters the region has seen in years. Among the young victims is a 9-year-old camper, according to her grieving family.
Rescue operations began immediately and have continued around the clock. Local, state, and federal teams are working in coordination to locate the missing and assist survivors. Over 850 people have been rescued so far, many of them pulled from rapidly rising waters in the middle of the night. Helicopters, boats, and ground units have been deployed in what officials are calling a massive and urgent effort to respond to the scale of the disaster.
The storm system that caused the flooding brought extraordinary rainfall levels to central Texas. In Hunt, a small town near Kerrville, more than 6.5 inches of rain fell within just three hours. Meteorologists classify this type of rainfall as a one-in-100-years event, underscoring its rarity and destructive potential. Several flash flood emergencies were issued across the region as rivers overflowed and creeks turned into raging torrents.
In the midst of the chaos, some members of the community have stepped up in extraordinary ways. Daric and Heidi Easton, who run a restaurant in downtown Kerrville, quickly transformed their business into a hub for relief efforts. Rather than serving regular customers, they have been preparing meals for first responders and victims of the flooding. Using their restaurant’s network and resources—including a customer’s private helicopter—they have managed to deliver hot food and supplies to isolated areas, including Camp Mystic.
Daric Easton, reflecting on the experience, said that the hospitality industry is uniquely positioned to respond to crises. He spoke about how their usual environment of controlled chaos made it possible to pivot quickly to community service. The couple's efforts culminated in delivering meals directly to those affected, providing not only physical sustenance but also a measure of comfort in a harrowing time. With their own daughter close in age to the girls missing from Camp Mystic, the tragedy has hit especially close to home for the Easton family.
The federal government has taken notice of the scale of the disaster. President Donald Trump announced via social media that the administration is coordinating with local and state officials to support response and recovery operations. He confirmed that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem will be visiting Texas soon to oversee efforts. The president also extended prayers and support to those impacted, praising the bravery of first responders who have been working non-stop to rescue the trapped and bring relief to the afflicted.
Officials continue to stress the severity of the situation, urging residents to remain cautious and avoid flooded areas. Search operations are especially focused on Camp Mystic, where the rising waters reportedly swept through sections of the property quickly, catching campers and staff by surprise. The search for the missing girls is ongoing, with teams using both aerial and ground surveillance in the hope of locating survivors or recovering victims.
As the state comes to terms with the loss and devastation, stories of heroism and solidarity continue to emerge. Volunteers, local businesses, and everyday residents have joined the response, offering shelter, food, and donations. The impact of the flood, however, is expected to be long-lasting. Infrastructure has been heavily damaged, and many families have lost homes, possessions, and loved ones. Emergency shelters have been set up across the region, and counseling services are being made available for those coping with trauma.
The coming days will be critical for both recovery and the continuation of search efforts. While the weather has improved, officials are monitoring for additional storms. With the full extent of damage still being assessed, Texas braces for a long road to recovery from a disaster that has shaken its heartland.
