A catastrophic deluge has swept through Central Texas, leaving communities along the Guadalupe River reeling. As homes vanish under raging waters and lives are lost, the region braces for more rain. The unfolding tragedy demands attention, with local heroes stepping up amidst the chaos.

Summary

• Historic flooding overwhelms Kerrville, Hunt, and Seguin.
• Guadalupe River hits near-record 34-inch level.
• Multiple fatalities reported; evacuations ordered countywide.
• Rescue operations underway as homes are swept away.
• Fourth of July celebrations canceled due to deadly floods.

Catastrophic Flooding Grips Kerr County

Central Texas is enduring a nightmare as the Guadalupe River, swollen by over 10 inches of overnight rain, has unleashed unprecedented destruction. The river surged to 34 inches, its second-highest level on record, surpassing the infamous 1987 flood. Kerrville, Hunt, and Seguin are underwater, with entire neighborhoods engulfed. 

The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office declared, “This is a catastrophic flooding event in Kerr County. We can confirm fatalities but will not release further information until next of kin are notified.”

Distress Parents Search For Kids 

Parents of campers are desperately attempting to contact their children amid emergency warnings and disaster declarations. 

However, Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, the county’s top official, has downplayed their concerns, advising parents to directly call the camps. Widespread power outages across the region may currently prevent camps from receiving calls.

“We have a lot of camps. I don’t know any specifics about any of the individual camps, but what I do know is everyone is doing their very best trying to identify as much as they can,” Kelly said during a press conference today.

Evacuations and Rescues in Full Swing

Mandatory evacuations are underway for residents near the Guadalupe River, with authorities urging immediate action. 

“If you are along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County, move to higher ground now,” the National Weather Service warned at 6:30 a.m. Friday. First responders are battling treacherous conditions, rescuing people stranded on rooftops and investigating homes swept away by the torrent. Video footage shows debris-choked waters raging through Kerrville, where local streets and low-water crossings are impassable.

Community Resilience Amid Tragedy

Despite the devastation, the spirit of Texas shines through. The United Cajun Navy is mobilizing to aid affected areas, stating on X, “We are in direct contact with members of Congress from that area. We ask everyone to heed local warnings as the initial reports appear very grim, and the affected areas in TX are still life threatening.” 

Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. issued a disaster declaration as floodwaters inundated homes, parks, and cabins in Kerrville-Schreiner Park. All Fourth of July celebrations in Kerrville have been canceled, a somber reminder of the crisis.

A Call to Action

As the Guadalupe River remains a deadly threat through the weekend, officials urge residents to shelter in place and avoid travel. The region’s conservative values of self-reliance and community support are being tested, yet locals are rising to the challenge. “

Texans are tough, but this flood is a beast,” said Sheriff’s Office spokesperson. “Stay safe and pray for those affected.”