A devastating storm in south-central Texas unleashed nearly a foot of rain overnight, leaving at least 24 people dead and dozens missing.
Floodwaters surged through the Guadalupe River, submerging the Hill Country, an area known for its century-old summer camps.
Camp Mystic: Dozens of Girls Unaccounted For
State officials said 23 to 25 girls from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp in Hunt, were still missing as of Friday evening. Over 237 people have been rescued, but the search continues. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick urged Texans to pray, calling it an “on-your-knees kind of praying” moment.
Rescues by Helicopter Amid Rising Waters
Rescue crews reached Camp Mystic Friday afternoon, airlifting campers who had been stranded on higher ground. Elinor Lester, 13, described waking up to the storm and being evacuated by helicopter after walking through rushing waters tied to a rope for safety.
Younger Campers’ Cabins Quickly Flooded
According to Lester, younger campers—some as young as eight—were housed along the riverbanks, where the flooding first hit. With no food, power, or running water, campers waited for rescuers as floodwaters rose dangerously high.
Parents’ Relief and Ongoing Heartbreak
Elizabeth Lester tearfully reunited with her daughter, but noted others are still missing, including a friend’s daughter who was a counselor. Nearby camps La Junta and Waldemar reported all campers and staff safe.
Families Wait for News
At a reunification center in Ingram, anxious families gathered, hoping to see their children. Many shared heartbreaking updates in local Facebook groups after hearing their daughters had not yet been located.
Flash Flood Alley Strikes Again
Camp Mystic sits in “flash flood alley,” where rain rapidly runs downhill rather than soaking into the ground. Officials had warned of severe weather, predicting up to 6 inches of rain—nearly 10 inches fell. The Guadalupe River rose to 26 feet in just 45 minutes.
Echoes of Past Tragedies
The disaster recalls the 1987 tragedy when floodwaters claimed the lives of 10 campers from another Christian camp along the Guadalupe River.
Beloved Camp Now a Scene of Destruction
Former counselor Chloe Crane described Camp Mystic as a cherished place where girls gained confidence and independence. Now, many campers’ happy memories have been replaced by fear and uncertainty after cabins were washed away.
Recovery Efforts Continue
Rescue operations remain underway as families, first responders, and communities hold onto hope for those still missing. Charities like the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country are collecting donations to support relief efforts.
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