Texas Flash Flood Tragedy: 82 Dead, Dozens Missing as Rescue Efforts Intensify; Trump Visit Likely
Texas flash floods kill 82, with 41 still missing. Rescue ops intensify as Trump plans visit. Campers among the victims; officials face criticism.
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Severe flash floods have devastated the Texas Hill Country, leaving at least 82 people dead and dozens still missing, including children from a summer camp. The disaster was triggered by a sudden surge in the Guadalupe River, which rose to the height of a two-storey building early Friday morning. Kerr County has been the worst affected, with 59 confirmed fatalities so far, including 28 children.
Here are the key developments:
Top 5 Points on Texas Flash Floods
1. Rising Death Toll
The death count has reached 82 as of Sunday. Kerr County reported 59 deaths, with Sheriff Larry Leitha confirming that 28 of them were children. Many victims remain unidentified, and the number is expected to rise as search operations continue.
2. Rescue Operations Across Counties
Travis, Burnet, Kendall, and Tom Green counties also reported casualties. Over 160 air rescues have been carried out, and the U.S. Coast Guard has saved more than 220 people. According to Kerrville City Manager Rice, “We’ve been rescuing people out of these camps by the hundreds.”
3. Criticism Over Warning Delays
Survivors described the disaster as a “pitch black wall of death,” claiming no flood warnings were issued in time. Parents and families of campers at Camp Mystic have slammed local authorities for not sounding alarms or ordering evacuations before 4 AM. Officials have defended themselves, citing concerns about warning fatigue.
4. Trump Expected to Visit
President Donald Trump is likely to visit the flood-hit areas on Friday. He has signed a federal disaster declaration to expedite aid. Calling the situation "absolutely horrible," Trump offered prayers and support to Texas residents.
5. Missing Persons and Last Messages
Among the missing is Joyce Bandon, a young woman who sent a final message at 4 AM before her house was swept away. Volunteer Louis Deppe shared that her last text to family read, “We’re being washed away,” before contact was lost.
Authorities continue to face mounting pressure over their response to one of the deadliest flood disasters in recent Texas history. With search and rescue efforts still underway, the focus remains on finding the missing and aiding survivors.
