Search efforts ongoing for girls missing from Texas Christian summer camp due to severe flooding.

Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Kerr County, Texas, where more than 20 young girls remain unaccounted for following severe flooding that inundated Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls established nearly a century ago. The floods, triggered by intense rainfall, led to the Guadalupe River rising dramatically, overwhelming the camp and surrounding areas.

Rescue teams are tirelessly combing the affected region, approximately 60 miles northwest of San Antonio, employing helicopters, boats, and drones in their efforts to locate the missing and rescue any survivors trapped by rapidly rising waters. As of Saturday, the devastating storm has been linked to the deaths of 24 individuals, underscoring the severity of the flooding crisis.

The identities of the missing girls have not been disclosed publicly. Camp Mystic, which was hosting over 750 girls at the time of the incident, experienced a catastrophic rise in water levels, reporting an astonishing increase of 26 feet within just 45 minutes early on Friday morning. This swift escalation of water led to widespread destruction, sweeping homes from their foundations and carrying away vehicles. With further severe weather warnings still in effect, conditions remain precarious for ongoing search efforts.

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick confirmed that at the height of the storm, rainfall rates reached 12 inches per hour, contributing to the rapid flooding. Forecasters from the National Weather Service indicated the possibility of additional severe rainfall and catastrophic flooding throughout the region on Saturday due to the slow-moving storm system.

In a statement on social media, the National Weather Service reported, “Over a foot of rain has fallen overnight. Streams have rapidly risen, and floodwaters are beginning to move downstream in Burnet, Williamson, and northwest Travis counties.” They urged residents to seek higher ground immediately if they are near swelling streams, emphasizing the ongoing nature of rescue operations.

As the search continues, officials have noted the need for cooperation from the community to assist families affected by the disaster. The situation remains fluid as responders work diligently to reunite missing individuals with their families and ensure the safety of those still in the area. Current estimates suggest that tracking the full extent of those unaccounted for may take more time, adding to the urgency felt by families and authorities alike.

Ingram, Texas, which has been deeply impacted by flooding, served as the site for a reunification center established for families affected by the crisis. The community has mobilized in efforts to support each other during this challenging time, highlighting the resilience and determination to overcome the adversities caused by this unprecedented natural disaster.

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