Central Texas faces a mounting catastrophe after flash floods over July 4–7 left at least 104 people dead, including 28 children, and dozens still missing across multiple counties.
The Guadalupe River surged nearly 26–29 feet within 45 minutes in Kerr County, sweeping away cabins and vehicles amid holiday weekend revelry. With more rain expected, the worst may not be over.
Flash Flood Alley Strikes Again
This deadly flash flood resulted from a mesoscale convective complex fueled by Tropical Storm Barry’s remnants. It dumped up to 20 inches of rain in just hours, reigniting fears around “flash flood alley” in Texas Hill Country.
Kerr County alone lost 87 lives, with Camp Mystic in Hunt accounting for 27 fatalities—including campers and counselors—and still missing young victims. Narrow valleys and steep terrain accelerated runoff, making the floods especially lethal.
Preparedness Gaps Exposed Amid Emergency Response
Despite National Weather Service alerts early July 3–4, local infrastructure fell short. Kerr County lacked sirens; cell service and evacuation plans failed. Kerrville’s mayor said officials “didn’t even have a warning,” while Lieutenant Governor pledged state sirens within a year.
A FEMA grant request for warning systems was rejected in 2017, and recent federal budget cuts hampered preparedness. Rescue efforts mobilized Coast Guard, National Guard, drones, boats, and helicopters—saving over 850 people. However, rescue teams warn that more rain could cause another surge of damage.
Historical Context: Repeated Tragedy in Flash Flood Alley
Central Texas has endured repeated deadly floods. Notably, in July 1987, the Guadalupe River flash flood killed 10 children at Pot O’ Gold Camp near Comfort. Other disasters—like Austin’s Onion Creek flood (2013) and 2015 Blanco River surge—highlight the persistent threat.
Today’s flash flood ranks among the deadliest in almost a century and calls into question ongoing preparedness in flood-prone regions.
Watch this video for the full stroy: