Flash Floods Devastate Texas Summer Camp: 27 Girls and Staff Confirmed Dead

TDT | Manama

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At least 27 girls and staff from Camp Mystic, a popular summer camp for girls in Kerr County, Texas, have been confirmed dead following catastrophic flash floods that swept through the region early Friday morning.

The tragedy is part of a wider disaster that has claimed over 80 lives across central Texas, with dozens still missing as search and rescue efforts enter their fourth day. Officials say the Guadalupe River rose more than 26 feet (8 meters) in under an hour, overwhelming the camp and surrounding communities with little warning.

More heavy rain is forecast over the next 24–48 hours, with flood alerts extended through Monday evening.

Disaster Declaration and National Response

On Sunday, US President Donald Trump signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, unlocking federal support for rescue operations and recovery.

As questions arise over the timeliness and adequacy of flood warnings, federal and local authorities are racing to account for the missing and assess the widespread damage left behind.

Search and Rescue: Slow and Painstaking

Search teams are combing through vast areas choked with debris — tree limbs, household items, overturned vehicles, and thick river silt.
"You have to go foot-by-foot and untangle it all," Washington Post reporter Arelis Hernandez told the BBC, describing the emotionally grueling task of locating victims beneath matted wreckage.
He confirmed that multiple bodies have already been recovered during these efforts.

Community in Mourning

What was once an idyllic setting has become a scene of tragedy. Camp Mystic, known for fostering young girls' personal growth and friendship, is now at the heart of one of Texas’s worst flood disasters in recent history.

Families and community members are devastated. “This has absolutely ripped this place apart,” Hernandez said.

Acts of Heroism

Amid the heartbreak, stories of courage and selflessness are emerging.

- Emma Foltz, a university student and camp counselor from Louisiana, is credited with saving 14 girls by guiding them to higher ground.
💬 “She played an instrumental role,” said Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.

- Scott Ruskan, a U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer, reportedly rescued 165 people. Homeland Security praised him as “an American hero” who embodies the Coast Guard’s mission of selfless service.

Ongoing Concern

With weather conditions set to worsen, officials are urging residents to remain alert and avoid low-lying areas.

Efforts to identify the deceased and reunite families with loved ones are continuing. As Kerr County grieves, the state and nation watch with heavy hearts — and a resolve to support the recovery ahead.