Catastrophic Flooding in Texas: Death Toll Rises Over 100, More Still Missing

Heavy storms and torrential rain wreaked havoc across central Texas beginning early on Friday (July 4), triggering catastrophic flooding and claiming the lives of over 100 people.

Meanwhile, search and rescue teams are still looking for some who were swept away in the floods.

Water levels along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County surged between 22 and 29 feet in just hours, far beyond normal levels, overwhelming the surrounding area.

According to Reuters, more than 100 fatalities have been confirmed as of Tuesday (July 8).

At least 18 people remain missing, according to CNN, though officials report that they don't have a clear number on the amount of people who may be unaccounted for at this time.

Since the flooding event on Friday, search and rescue efforts have focused around Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls where dozens of cabins were affected by rapidly rising water.

As of Tuesday, six people from Camp Mystic remain missing, per CNN.

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The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office has officially declared it “catastrophic flooding.” Local leaders echoed that the flooding was impossible to predict.

"We didn’t know this flood was coming," Judge Kelly said at a press conference on Friday (July 4). "Rest assured, no one knew this kind of flood was coming. We had no reason to believe that this was going to be anything like what’s happened here — none whatsoever."

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Flash Flood Safety Tips

Flash floods strike fast, often with little warning. Here's how to stay safe:

• Never underestimate water surges—even shallow water can be deadly.
• Check local alerts before traveling, especially near rivers or hillsides.
• Avoid flooded roads. Stay on high ground and wait for official rescue teams.
• Don’t attempt to drive through water—just 6 inches can stall a car, and 12 inches can sweep it away.