Devastating consequences of the Texas flood event.
On July 4, 2025, Kerr County, Texas, was hit by a devastating flood caused by extreme rainfall from severe storms. The Guadalupe River surged dramatically, reaching record levels, causing widespread destruction in Kerrville and surrounding communities.
The heavy rainfall, which reached nearly half of the annual average for Kerr County, resulted in a catastrophic flood that left at least 43 people dead in Kerr County alone. The death toll in the central part of the state has risen to 51, with some reports placing the total death toll across multiple counties at 52 by July 5.
Among the fatalities were both adults and children, including 27 young girls from a Christian summer camp (Camp Mystic near Hunt, Texas). As of July 5, none of these missing campers have been found. The total number of missing individuals in the affected area is now approximately 20.
Helicopters, tactical military vehicles, boats, and swimming rescuers were deployed to save and evacuate residents. Kerr County officials, including Sheriff Larry Leitha, managed ongoing notifications to families while continuing search and rescue operations.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a flood watch the afternoon before, warning of up to 7 inches of rainfall. However, the actual rainfall far exceeded forecasts, limiting advance warning time. Local officials have stated that the flooding happened too quickly to allow for extensive evacuation.
In response to the disaster, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of emergency, and the state is receiving federal aid. The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has promised federal aid to the state. Efforts are underway to upgrade warning technologies to provide better advance notice for future events, acknowledging previous underinvestment and cuts to NWS staffing during past administrations.
The flooding has caused extensive property damage, leaving many residents displaced and seeking shelter. The impact of this disaster is still being assessed, but it is clear that the community of Kerr County will need significant support in the coming weeks and months to recover and rebuild.
[1] Kerrville Daily Times, "Flooding in Kerr County: What We Know So Far," July 5, 2025. [2] Austin American-Statesman, "Kerr County Flood: Death Toll Rises as Rescue Efforts Continue," July 5, 2025. [3] San Antonio Express-News, "Flooding in Kerr County: Thousands Evacuated as Death Toll Rises," July 5, 2025. [4] Dallas Morning News, "Kerr County Flood: Local Officials Respond to Criticism as Death Toll Rises," July 6, 2025.
The National Weather Service (NWS) had warned of up to 7 inches of rainfall the day before the disaster, but the actual rainfall far exceeded forecasts, limiting advance warning time.
The flooding caused by the extreme rainfall left at least 52 people dead in central Texas, with many still missing and approximately 20 people unaccounted for.
