"Melania Trump expresses sympathies to the parents in Texas amid devastating floods"
In the heart of Texas, a devastating flood has left a trail of destruction and heartbreak. As of July 5, 2025, the situation remains critical, with at least 27 lives lost, including 18 adults and 9 children, and 27 children from a girls' sleep-away camp still missing [1].
Texas Governor Greg Abbott reported that more than 850 people have been rescued, with crews currently searching 30 miles of the river for survivors [1]. The focus of the ongoing rescue operations is on locating the missing individuals and providing support to those affected by the floods.
The floodwaters have swept through various parts of the state, causing significant damage. In particular, the river gauge near Camp Mystic, a popular summer camp, failed after recording a level of 29.5 feet. Over 20 children who were at Camp Mystic remain unaccounted for [2]. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick confirmed that at least 20 young girls from the camp are still missing [3].
The floodwaters have been moving with alarming speed, making it difficult for rescuers to fully assess the extent of the damage. Bob Fogarty, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service's Austin/San Antonio office, reported a 22-foot rise in a river near Camp Mystic in about two hours [4].
President Donald Trump described the situation as shocking, stating young lives have been lost, and he is working with the Texas governor to secure federal aid for recovery efforts [5]. First Lady Melania Trump expressed her devastation over the flood-related losses in Texas.
Rescue efforts have been intense, with over 400 rescuers deployed to search for the missing individuals. Helicopters and drones have been extensively used in the search and rescue operations [6]. Many people have been rescued from the water, with some having to climb trees for safety.
Elinor Lester, a 13-year-old camper at Camp Mystic, described the camp as "completely destroyed." Rescuers have been tying ropes for campers to hold while crossing bridges with floodwaters [7]. Tragically, CNN reported that 9-year-old Janie Hunt, a camper, was found dead [8].
As the rescue efforts continue, our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this catastrophic flood. Updates on the situation will be provided as more information becomes available.
Politics in Texas are temporarily overshadowed by the general-news event of the devastating flood, where crime-and-justice stories have taken a back seat. The weather situation, marked by rapid flooding and high water levels, has led to accidents such as the loss of life and missing children, including 20 from Camp Mystic.
