Texas Floods: At Least 32 Dead, Summer Camp Girls Missing
Severe flooding in Texas Hill Country has resulted in a devastating loss of life. At least 32 people have died, including 14 children, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed.
Search and Rescue Operations Underway
Authorities are actively searching for survivors. The situation is especially critical as 27 girls from a Christian summer camp along the Guadalupe River are missing. Officials fear they may be stranded and unable to call for help.
Congressman August Pfluger reported that his daughters were safely evacuated from Camp Mystic.
State of Disaster Declared
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster, deploying the Texas National Guard and state troopers to assist in search and rescue efforts. He has also requested federal assistance to support the ongoing operations.
W Nim Kidd, chief of the Texas division of emergency management, emphasized the urgency of the situation. While acknowledging the eventual transition to recovery, the focus remains on finding survivors.
More than 850 people have been rescued, many with the assistance of helicopters. Several flood-affected areas are still experiencing power and internet outages, complicating rescue efforts.