Catastrophic flash floods in central Texas have claimed at least 104 lives after storms caused the Guadalupe River to rise over 26 feet in just 45 minutes on July 4. Among the hardest-hit areas was Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ camp, where 27 campers and counselors died and 11 remain missing. Survivors described chaos, collapsed cabins, and rescue helicopters overhead.
A Final Message
One victim, 21-year-old Joyce Catherine Badon, texted her parents, “We’re being washed away,” before her phone went silent. Her body was found days later.
County Death Toll
Kerr County suffered the most fatalities—84. Other counties affected include Travis (7), Kendall (6), Burnet (4), Williamson (2), and Tom Green (1).
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency as search teams continue efforts with drones and dogs. The death toll may rise as floodwaters recede.
Remembering the Lost
Victims include children as young as eight. Communities across Texas are holding vigils and sending aid, united in grief and support for survivors of this historic disaster.