Catastrophic flash flooding in Central Texas has left a devastating impact on Kerr County, particularly at Camp Mystic, a historic all-girls Christian summer camp along the Guadalupe River. As of July 5, 2025, at least 24 people have been confirmed dead, and between 23 and 25 young campers remain unaccounted for following unprecedented rainfall that caused the river to rise 26 feet in less than an hour. Here’s the latest update on the ongoing crisis, rescue efforts, and how families and authorities are responding.

Devastating Floods Strike Camp Mystic

Camp Mystic, a nearly century-old summer camp in Hunt, Texas, was overwhelmed by flash floods on the night of July 4, 2025. The Guadalupe River, which runs alongside the camp, surged to its second-highest level on record, surpassing the destructive 1987 flood. Reports indicate that up to 10 inches of rain fell in just a few hours, flooding cabins and washing away structures at the camp. The sudden deluge left little time for warnings, catching campers, counselors, and staff off guard.

According to Camp Mystic’s statement, shared via the Ingram Fire Department, the camp sustained “catastrophic level floods,” losing power, water, and WiFi. While campers at the camp’s Cypress Lake and Senior Hill sites have been accounted for, approximately 23 to 25 girls remain missing, prompting an urgent search-and-rescue operation.

Ongoing Search and Rescue Efforts

Emergency response teams, including over 500 personnel, 14 helicopters, and 12 drones, are scouring the Guadalupe River and surrounding areas for the missing campers. The Texas Game Wardens and other agencies, including the Houston Fire Department, are assisting in Kerr County, focusing on rescuing individuals before transitioning to recovery efforts. Rescued campers are being transported via helicopter to a reunification center at Ingram Elementary School, where families are reuniting with their loved ones.

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, acting as governor, emphasized the scale of the response: “We will do everything humanly possible to find those who are unaccounted for.” He noted that parents who have not been contacted by camp officials should assume their children are safe, as Camp Mystic is directly notifying families of unaccounted-for campers. However, communication challenges due to downed power lines, flooded roads, and spotty cellphone service are complicating efforts.

Community and National Support

The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support from local and national leaders. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott visited Kerr County on July 4 to provide updates, joined by state and local officials. The White House has pledged federal assistance, with former President Donald Trump stating, “We’re working with the governor. It’s a terrible thing.” Sen. Ted Cruz also called for prayers, emphasizing the need for resources to aid the search.

Local communities, including the Highland Park United Methodist Church, are organizing prayer vigils for those affected, noting that several Camp Mystic attendees are part of their congregation. The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country is collecting donations to support nonprofits aiding in the disaster response.

Stories of Loss and Hope

Families of the missing campers, including North Texas residents Eloise Peck, Lila Bonner, Kellyanne Lytal, and Hadley Hanna, have taken to social media to share photos and pleas for information. The lack of technology access at the camp has made communication difficult, adding to the anguish of parents like Janie Hunt, who awaits news of her daughter’s whereabouts.

Despite the grim situation, stories of resilience are emerging. Over 230 individuals have been rescued, with helicopters evacuating campers who sheltered on higher ground. Nearby camps, such as Camp La Junta and Heart o’ the Hills, reported that their campers are safe, though evacuations at some sites are delayed due to hazardous conditions.

A Region Prone to Flooding

The Texas Hill Country, often referred to as “Flash Flood Alley,” is one of the most flood-prone areas in North America. The region’s history of deadly floods, including the 1987 event that killed 10 teenagers near Comfort, underscores the vulnerability of camps like Mystic, situated along the Guadalupe River. The lack of an adequate warning system in Kerr County has drawn criticism, with residents noting that the National Weather Service issued a phone alert only at 4:30 a.m., after the river had already risen dramatically.

How to Help and Stay Informed

As rescue operations continue, authorities urge Kerr County residents to shelter in place and avoid travel near the Guadalupe River. Those looking to support relief efforts can donate to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country or follow updates from trusted sources like the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Game Wardens.

For the latest developments, visit NRIGlobe.com for real-time updates on the Camp Mystic flooding crisis and other breaking news. Our thoughts are with the families, first responders, and communities affected by this tragedy.