“Within 45 minutes, the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet.”
UPDATE: 2:30 PM EST, July 5, 2025 — Earlier today, officials announced that of the 32 people killed, 18 were adults and 14 were children. Over 20 children who were attending summer camp at Camp Mystic are still missing.
On Friday evening, Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem said that “[United States Coast Guard] is punching through storms to evacuate Americans from central Texas. We will fly throughout the night and as long as possible. This is what the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard do.”
President Trump issued a statement: “The Trump Administration is working with State and Local Officials on the ground in Texas in response to the tragic flooding that took place yesterday. Our Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, will be there shortly. Melania and I are praying for all of the families impacted by this horrible tragedy. Our Brave First Responders are on site doing what they do best. GOD BLESS THE FAMILIES, AND GOD BLESS TEXAS!”
Kerr County Sheriff Larry L. Leitha said Saturday morning that over 850 uninjured people have been evacuated from the area. Rescuers are attempting to reach additional camp sites, but road damage is disrupting efforts. Rescue operations and residents remaining in the area are urged to use extreme caution.
Scattered showers are still expected through Sunday. With rivers and creeks already over their banks, further flooding is possible.
Over the past 48 hours, catastrophic flash flooding along the Guadalupe River, particularly in Kerr County. A flood warning was issued for the area until July 5 at 4:47 AM CDT.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said in a news conference that “Within 45 minutes, the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet and it was a destructive flood — taking property and sadly lives.”
Authorities have confirmed at least 13 deaths, with officials noting that the count includes both adults and children and is expected to rise as search and recovery efforts continue. Among those unaccounted for are approximately 20 to 23 girls from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp along the river. While many campers have been accounted for, the search for the missing continues with grave concern.
Water rescues have been ongoing throughout the region, with hundreds of personnel on the ground, utilizing boats, 14 helicopters, and 12 drones. The city of Kerrville has issued a disaster declaration, and reunification centers have been set up for anxious families.
Senator Ted Cruz posted a statement to social media, “Please pray right now for everyone in the Hill Country, especially Camp Mystic.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the swift and safe return of all those who are still missing, including the girls from Camp Mystic and any other individuals swept away by the floodwaters.
- For protection over first responders and search and rescue teams as they navigate dangerous conditions.
- For families who are grieving or anxiously awaiting news of loved ones.
- For state and federal officials, and all emergency management personnel, as they coordinate massive relief and recovery efforts.
Sources: CBS News, Fox News, Texas Public Radio, AP News
