Texas flash floods: At least 24 dead; over 20 girls missing from riverfront camp
Nearly two-dozen girls have also been reported missing from a riverfront summer camp, local authorities said, and it is unclear if any of them have been found yet.
The US National Weather Service declared a flash flood emergency for parts of Kerr County, located in Texas Hill Country, about 105km northwest of San Antonio, following thunderstorms with heavy downpours that dumped as much as a foot of rain.
US President Donald Trump said on Friday that the flash floods were "shocking" and "terrible."
Dalton Rice, city manager for Kerrville, the county seat, told reporters the extreme flooding struck before dawn with little or no warning, precluding authorities from issuing advance evacuation orders as the Guadalupe swiftly rose above major flood stage.
"This happened very quickly, over a very short period of time that could not be predicted, even with radar," Rice said. "This happened within less than a two-hour span." July Fourth fireworks displays were canceled in flood-stricken communities throughout the region, including Kerrville, where the waterfront site for Friday night's planned US Independence Day celebration was submerged by the rain-swollen river.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha earlier told reporters that 13 people were found dead from flooding in the area, adding, "I think there will be more when this thing is over." The toll has since then risen to 24 dead.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said at an earlier news briefing that six to 10 bodies of adults and children had been found, some in cars washed downstream.
Prayers for the missing
He also said authorities were searching for 23 girls listed as unaccounted for among more than 700 children at several summer camp sites near the banks of the Guadalupe River when the site was inundated by floodwaters at around 4 am local time.
"We're praying for all those missing to be found alive," Patrick said.
It was not clear whether anyone unaccounted for at Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls, might have ended up among the deceased victims tallied countywide by the sheriff.
Otherwise, all other campers were safe, authorities said, but the campers could not immediately be evacuated because roads were made impassable by high waters. Camp Mystic's director said in a message read to reporters that the facility's power, water and internet service also had been cut off.
"Everybody is doing everything in their power to get these kids out," Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, the top local elected official, said at a news briefing on the disaster hours earlier.
Kelly said a number of scattered residential subdivisions, recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds were hit hard.
Pressed by reporters why more precautions were not taken with stormy weather in the forecast, Kelly insisted a disaster of such magnitude was unforeseen.
"We have floods all the time. This is the most dangerous river valley in the United States," he said, adding, "We had no reason to believe this was going to be anything like what's happened here. None whatsoever."
Patrick said the Guadalupe River had risen 8 metres in 45 minutes amid heavy showers soaking the region. Search teams were flying 14 helicopters and a dozen drones over the area, in addition to hundreds of emergency personnel on the ground conducting rescues from trees and swift-flowing water.
The Llano River flowing through adjacent Mason County was also reported running at flood stage, posing "a life-threatening situation," the weather service reported.
With additional rain forecast in the region, Patrick warned that an ongoing threat for possible flash flooding extended from San Antonio to Waco for the next 24 to 48 hours.
Personnel from the US Coast Guard and the Federal Emergency Management Agency were activated to assist local authorities in confronting the crisis, officials said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The National
5 hours ago
- The National
Flash floods in Texas leave 24 dead and at least 23 young campers missing
At least 24 people were killed in Texas as torrential rain unleashed flash floods along the Guadalupe River in Texas on Friday, authorities said. Rescue searched for people stranded by high water or missing in the disaster. It was reported that about 23 people, mostly children, were unaccounted for at an all-girls Christian summer camp on the banks of the bursting river. Texas Governor Greg Abbott said late on Friday that nearly after 18 hours after the crisis began, search-and-rescue operations would press on through the night and into Saturday. Mr Abbott said resources devoted to the effort would be "limitless". US President Donald Trump told reporters on board Air Force One that "we'll take care of them", when asked about federal aid for the disaster. The US National Weather Service declared a flash flood emergency for parts of Kerr County in south-central Texas Hill Country, about 100km north-west of San Antonio, following thunderstorms that dumped as much as a 30cm of rain. Dalton Rice, city manager for Kerrville, the county seat, told reporters the extreme flooding struck before dawn with little or no warning, precluding authorities from issuing advance evacuation orders as the Guadalupe swiftly rose above major flood stage. "This happened very quickly, over a very short period of time that could not be predicted, even with radar," Mr Rice said. "This happened within less than a two-hour span." State emergency management officials had warned as early as Thursday that west and central Texas faced heavy rains and flash flood threats "over the next couple of days", citing National Weather Service forecasts ahead of the Fourth of July holiday weekend. But the weather forecasts "did not predict the amount of rain that we saw," Nim Kidd, director of the Texas Division of Emergency Management, told a news conference on Friday night. Independence Day fireworks displays ended up being cancelled in flood-stricken communities throughout the region, including Kerrville, where the waterfront site for a planned Fourth of July celebration was submerged by the rain-swollen river. At Friday night's briefing, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said 24 flood-related fatalities had been confirmed, up from 13 earlier in the day. One more person found dead in neighbouring Kendall County was not confirmed to be a flood-related casualty, he said. Searching for the missing girls Officials said they were searching for 23 girls listed as missing from among more than 750 children at summer camp sites along the banks of the Guadalupe River, Lt Gov Dan Patrick said. The missing campers had all been attending Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls. "We're praying for all those missing to be found alive," Mr Patrick said. It was not clear whether anyone unaccounted for might have ended up among the deceased victims tallied countywide by the sheriff. Otherwise, all other campers were safe, authorities said, with campers being evacuated throughout the day. "Everybody is doing everything in their power to get these kids out," Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, the top local elected official, had said at a news briefing on the disaster hours earlier. Mr Kelly said a number of scattered residential subdivisions, recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds were hit hard. Asked why more precautions were not taken with stormy weather in the forecast, Mr Kelly insisted a disaster of such magnitude was unforeseen. "We have floods all the time. This is the most dangerous river valley in the United States," he said. "We had no reason to believe this was going to be anything like what's happened here. None whatsoever." Mr Patrick said the Guadalupe River had risen by eight metres in 45 minutes as heavy showers soaked the region. As of Friday night, emergency personnel had rescued or evacuated 237 people, including 167 by helicopter. With additional rain forecast in the region, Mr Patrick warned that an ongoing threat for possible flash flooding extended from San Antonio to Waco for the next 24 to 48 hours. On Friday night, Mr Abbott signed a disaster declaration to hasten emergency assistance to Kerr and a cluster of additional counties hardest hit by the floods. Personnel from the US Coast Guard and the Federal Emergency Management Agency also were activated to assist local authorities in confronting the crisis, officials said.
Khaleej Times
8 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Texas flash floods: At least 24 dead; over 20 girls missing from riverfront camp
Torrential rains unleashed deadly flash floods along the Guadalupe River in south-central Texas on Friday, killing at least 24 people, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said on Friday. Nearly two-dozen girls have also been reported missing from a riverfront summer camp, local authorities said, and it is unclear if any of them have been found yet. The US National Weather Service declared a flash flood emergency for parts of Kerr County, located in Texas Hill Country, about 105km northwest of San Antonio, following thunderstorms with heavy downpours that dumped as much as a foot of rain. US President Donald Trump said on Friday that the flash floods were "shocking" and "terrible." Dalton Rice, city manager for Kerrville, the county seat, told reporters the extreme flooding struck before dawn with little or no warning, precluding authorities from issuing advance evacuation orders as the Guadalupe swiftly rose above major flood stage. "This happened very quickly, over a very short period of time that could not be predicted, even with radar," Rice said. "This happened within less than a two-hour span." July Fourth fireworks displays were canceled in flood-stricken communities throughout the region, including Kerrville, where the waterfront site for Friday night's planned US Independence Day celebration was submerged by the rain-swollen river. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha earlier told reporters that 13 people were found dead from flooding in the area, adding, "I think there will be more when this thing is over." The toll has since then risen to 24 dead. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said at an earlier news briefing that six to 10 bodies of adults and children had been found, some in cars washed downstream. Prayers for the missing He also said authorities were searching for 23 girls listed as unaccounted for among more than 700 children at several summer camp sites near the banks of the Guadalupe River when the site was inundated by floodwaters at around 4 am local time. "We're praying for all those missing to be found alive," Patrick said. It was not clear whether anyone unaccounted for at Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls, might have ended up among the deceased victims tallied countywide by the sheriff. Otherwise, all other campers were safe, authorities said, but the campers could not immediately be evacuated because roads were made impassable by high waters. Camp Mystic's director said in a message read to reporters that the facility's power, water and internet service also had been cut off. "Everybody is doing everything in their power to get these kids out," Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, the top local elected official, said at a news briefing on the disaster hours earlier. Kelly said a number of scattered residential subdivisions, recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds were hit hard. Pressed by reporters why more precautions were not taken with stormy weather in the forecast, Kelly insisted a disaster of such magnitude was unforeseen. "We have floods all the time. This is the most dangerous river valley in the United States," he said, adding, "We had no reason to believe this was going to be anything like what's happened here. None whatsoever." Patrick said the Guadalupe River had risen 8 metres in 45 minutes amid heavy showers soaking the region. Search teams were flying 14 helicopters and a dozen drones over the area, in addition to hundreds of emergency personnel on the ground conducting rescues from trees and swift-flowing water. The Llano River flowing through adjacent Mason County was also reported running at flood stage, posing "a life-threatening situation," the weather service reported. With additional rain forecast in the region, Patrick warned that an ongoing threat for possible flash flooding extended from San Antonio to Waco for the next 24 to 48 hours. Personnel from the US Coast Guard and the Federal Emergency Management Agency were activated to assist local authorities in confronting the crisis, officials said.
UAE Moments
a day ago
- UAE Moments
Essential Tips to Stay Cool and Beat the Summer Heat
Tips to Stay Cool in the Summer Summer is a season that brings joy through outdoor activities, beach trips, and family gatherings. However, extreme heat can take a toll on your health and comfort. Staying cool and protecting yourself from heat exhaustion is essential for enjoying the summer months while staying safe. In this article, we'll provide practical tips to beat the summer heat, incorporating useful subtopics like water, ice, shades, clothing, umbrellas, fans, and more. The Importance of Hydration Keeping yourself hydrated is one of the most important ways to stay cool during the summer. Water helps regulate your body temperature and prevents dehydration caused by excessive sweating. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dehydration can lead to serious complications such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which are common in the hotter months. Drink Plenty of Water On sweltering days, it is advisable to drink at least eight glasses of water to maintain proper hydration. Carrying a refillable water bottle wherever you go ensures that you always have access to clean water. If you're participating in outdoor activities, increase your intake to replace the water lost through sweat. Add Electrolytes to Your Diet While water is the obvious choice, adding electrolytes can be highly beneficial as they replenish the salts lost during perspiration. Sports drinks, coconut water, and electrolyte tablets can give your body the boost it needs to stay balanced and energized throughout the day. Summer music festivals often take place in open fields under intense sunlight. Organizers frequently stress the importance of hydration, and many festivals provide free water stations to prevent heat-related illnesses among attendees. This emphasizes the vital role water plays in enduring prolonged exposure to the sun. Embrace Shade and Shelter Finding shade or shelter from the sun's direct rays can make a significant difference in staying cool. Shade not only reduces your exposure to the sun but also allows your body a chance to recover from the heat. Relax Under Trees Natural shade offered by trees can lower the air temperature by several degrees compared to open spaces. Parks with abundant tree cover become havens during a scorching day, providing relief and minimizing UV exposure. Set Up a Canopy or Umbrella Portable solutions such as canopies, beach tents, or large umbrellas are great for creating instant shade. These are particularly useful for picnics, sports events, or beach outings. If you're planning a summer gathering, investing in a sturdy umbrella can help guests stay comfortable. Designing Outdoor Spaces with Shade Studies show that urban areas benefit greatly from shaded parks and streets, which reduce the heat island effect. For homeowners, planting trees or installing pergolas can be an effective way to design outdoor spaces that naturally offer cooler temperatures. Optimize Your Clothing Choices Clothing plays a key role in regulating your comfort and body temperature during summer. Choosing the right fabrics, colors, and styles can impact how well you handle the heat. Wear Light and Breathable Fabrics Cotton and linen are ideal fabrics for summer as they allow airflow and absorb sweat. Loose-fitting clothes prevent you from feeling constricted while enabling ventilation and comfort. Industry experts recommend avoiding synthetic fabrics, which trap heat and moisture. Select Light Colors Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight, whereas darker shades absorb it, causing your body temperature to rise. White, beige, pastel, or other light tones are the most suitable options during summer months. Incorporate Hats and Scarves Wide-brimmed hats or lightweight scarves can offer an additional layer of protection against the sun's harmful rays. These accessories are not only functional but also add a fashionable flair to your summer wardrobe. Examples from Athletes During summer sports tournaments, athletes often wear moisture-wicking clothing to both stay cool and improve performance. This practical application highlights the benefits of choosing heat-appropriate apparel. Benefits of Portable Fans Technology has made staying cool easier than ever. Personal fans can help lower your body temperature efficiently, particularly in spaces where air conditioning is unavailable. Carry Handheld Fans A handheld battery-operated fan is perfect for individuals on the go. It emits targeted airflow and is compact enough to fit into a bag, making it a practical solution for short-term relief from heat. Use Neck Fans Neck fans have gained popularity for their practicality. These devices wrap comfortably around your neck and provide consistent airflow, keeping you cool without occupying your hands. This makes them suitable for outdoor activities such as hiking or theme park visits. Room Fans and Air Circulation Floor-standing or tabletop fans significantly improve comfort levels indoors. By positioning a fan near a window, you can circulate cooler air throughout the room. Oscillating fans create a breeze effect, simulating natural wind patterns to reduce discomfort. Statistical Data on Fan Usage In hot climates, households typically increase their usage of fans by 25-40% during peak summer months. This data underscores the importance of fans in mitigating heat stress and maintaining indoor comfort. Cool Down with Ice Packs and Cold Showers When the temperature rises to unbearable levels, ice packs and cold showers offer immediate relief. These methods are particularly useful to combat overheating or exhaustion. Use Ice Packs on Pressure Points Applying ice packs to pressure points such as the neck, wrists, and ankles can rapidly cool your body. This technique is often used in medical settings to address heat exhaustion, highlighting its practicality for home use. Take Regular Cold Showers A cold shower not only lowers your core temperature but also refreshes and rejuvenates you during hot days. Consider taking more frequent showers if you're spending extended periods exposed to the sun. Make DIY Ice Towels Soak a small towel in ice water and apply it to your forehead, shoulders, or other areas prone to discomfort from heat. This impromptu solution is particularly convenient during travel or outdoor events. Real-Life Example: Workplace Adaptation Many workplaces in arid regions provide employees with cold towels and ice packs to ensure productivity isn't hampered by extreme heat. Employers recognize the advantages of incorporating such cooling measures. Utilize Cooling Technology Advancements in technology have made summer easier to endure. Cooling devices, designed for portability and effectiveness, make staying cool achievable even during extreme conditions. Invest in Cooling Apparel Many brands now produce specialized cooling apparel, embedded with gel beads or cooling fibers. These products aim to minimize heat buildup while keeping wearers comfortable. Cooling Sneakers Footwear brands have introduced sneakers with mesh designs and air vents for better airflow. These are particularly beneficial for individuals who remain active outdoors during summer. Thermal Cooling Devices From cooling pillows to USB-powered cooling products, there's a wide range of tools designed to manage heat in everyday situations. These innovations simplify staying cool without altering one's routine. Studies on Cooling Technology Research in thermal regulation demonstrates that cooling technology can reduce fatigue caused by high temperatures by up to 30%. This makes it a viable option for those living in extremely hot regions. Smart Eating Habits What you eat can directly impact how you cope with the summer heat. Consuming hydrating, refreshing foods ensures your body stays cool and energized. Eat Water-Rich Foods Fruits such as watermelon, cucumber, and citrus are ideal summer snacks. Their high water content and ability to soothe digestion make them perfect accompaniments during the hotter months. Avoid Heavy or Spicy Foods Heavy meals and spicy ingredients can elevate body temperature, making discomfort worse. Opt for lighter meals that are easier to digest for maintaining overall coolness. Prepare Herbal Teas and Iced Drinks Herbal teas such as peppermint and chamomile offer natural cooling benefits. Served cold, they not only refresh but can also provide subtle calming effects. Adding ice enhances their chill factor. Global Dietary Recommendations In Mediterranean cultures, cold dishes like gazpacho are commonly eaten during summertime to regulate body temperature. These traditions serve as valuable dietary guides for summer eating. Plan Activities Strategically While summer is synonymous with outdoor fun, it's wise to plan activities wisely to avoid excessive heat exposure. Go Outdoors Early in the Morning or Evening The sun's intensity peaks during midday, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Scheduling outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings minimizes the risk of heat-related discomfort and UV exposure. Schedule Breaks If participating in prolonged outdoor activities, be sure to take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces. Balance between exertion and relaxation plays a key role in staying cool. Use Heat Forecast Apps Weather forecasting apps help you plan your day around heat advisories. Tracking the temperature and UV index enables proactive measures for maintaining comfort. Example from Outdoor Workers Construction workers or landscapers often adhere to schedules designed around heat advisories, emphasizing the importance of strategic activity planning. The Role of Air Conditioning Air conditioning remains one of the most effective methods to combat summer heat. While not universally accessible, it is central to staying comfortable in many homes and offices. Optimize AC Usage To maximize efficiency, operate air conditioners at moderate temperatures rather than very cold settings. This creates a sustainable balance between cooling and energy costs. Maintenance Tips Regular cleaning of AC filters ensures optimal performance. Studies show that poorly maintained air conditioning units can increase electricity usage by 15%, highlighting the need for upkeep. Alternative Air Cooling Systems Evaporative coolers, ceiling fans, and cooling window films serve as alternatives for those who do not have full air conditioning systems. These options maintain comfort without heavy reliance on standard AC units. Statistical Insights
