Texas flood disaster: Did authorities issue any warning? All you need to know
Deadly flash floods have devastated parts of Texas, leaving at least 82 people dead and many still missing. Among those unaccounted for are 10 children and a counselor from Camp Mystic, a Christian girls' camp along the Guadalupe River.
Rescue operations intensified on Sunday as emergency teams raced against time to locate survivors. The urgency is growing, with forecasters warning of further heavy rainfall that could trigger more flash flooding in the already ravaged region.
As emergency efforts continue, here are some key questions and answers about the disaster and ongoing relief operations:
Was there any warning?
Yes, though the true scale of the flooding caught many by surprise, according to USA Today, state emergency management officials warned as early as July 2 that west and central Texas faced heavy rains and flash flood threats, citing National Weather Service forecasts ahead of the holiday weekend.
By July 3, a flood watch was issued for eight counties, including Kerr, forecasting 1–3 inches of rain, with isolated spots possibly getting up to 7 inches. Still, there were no forecasts of catastrophic flooding.
At 4.03 am on July 4, the NWS issued a flash flood emergency for south-central Kerr County, including the town of Hunt, calling it a 'particularly dangerous situation' and urging people to 'seek higher ground now.'
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Are rescue operations still underway?
Emergency crews have been working tirelessly, navigating swollen rivers and debris-strewn terrain to locate and rescue those stranded. By Sunday, more than 850 people had been brought to safety, though many are still unaccounted for. Among the responders, US coast guard rescue swimmer Scott Ruskan stood out, saving 165 people during a single mission.
Homeland security secretary Kristi Noem assured federal support, with coast guard aircraft continuing operations after dark.
How severe was the flooding? Is it over?
On July 4, the Guadalupe River near Kerrville rose from under 2 feet to more than 34 feet in just over an hour — a dramatic and deadly surge. By Sunday, forecasters warned of additional rain and the risk of more flooding, with conditions likely to worsen.
Which areas were worst affected?
Several cities across central Texas, especially between San Antonio and Austin, were battered by the downpour over the Independence Day weekend.
Rainfall totals in some locations included:
Liberty Hill – 20.6 inches
Lakeway – 13.5 inches
Kerrville – 11.9 inches
Leander – 10.5 inches
Brady, TX and parts of San Antonio also experienced flooding.
What's the death toll now?
As of Sunday evening, at least 82 people have been confirmed dead. In Kerr County alone — the hardest-hit area, 40 adults and 28 children have been found, reported USA Today quoting sheriff Larry Leitha.
How can one help?
Multiple organizations are accepting donations and offering aid, such as Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, Kerr County Relief Fund and GoFundMe (hosting verified fundraisers for victims).
Austin Pets Alive! has taken in over 50 displaced animals and is organizing a volunteer search group to find pets along the river. The group is also collecting donations to support pet recovery and cremation services for families that lost animals.
The Salvation Army Kroc Center in Kerrville is accepting donations of nonperishable food, hygiene items, diapers, and other essentials. Updates are being shared regularly on the center's Instagram page.
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