A terrifying and unexpected flood swept through central Texas overnight, leaving devastation in its wake.
Rising waters from the Guadalupe River overwhelmed small towns in Kerr County, wiping out homes, RV parks, and potentially dozens of summer camps filled with children.
A Wall of Water Takes Texas by Surprise
In just a few hours, the Guadalupe River surged over 22 feet, spilling out of its banks and racing through communities that had little warning.
Entire homes were torn from their foundations. Campgrounds disappeared.
The destruction has been described as “catastrophic,” and tragically, at least six lives have already been lost.
Families Frantically Search for Loved Ones
Perhaps most distressing is the uncertainty faced by parents of children attending summer camps in the area.
With power outages and limited cell service across Kerr County, many are desperately trying to reach their kids—but getting no answers.
Disaster declarations are now in place, and emergency teams are scrambling to assess the damage.
County Judge’s Response Sparks Outrage
As worried parents begged for updates, Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, the top official in the region, suggested they “call the camps directly”—even though many have no electricity or phone lines working.
“We have a lot of camps,” Kelly said at a press briefing.
“I don’t know any specifics… everyone is doing their best.”
When pressed about why the county wasn’t more prepared, the judge became defensive, insisting: “We didn’t know this flood was coming.”
Entire Families and RV Parks Swept Away
Among the missing is a family of four from Kerrville, whose home was completely washed away.
Early Friday, a relative visited the vacant lot where the house once stood—only to find nothing left behind.
Officials believe the entire property was carried off by the raging floodwaters.
Similarly, an RV community in Ingram was obliterated, with families still inside their trailers as the water swept them downstream.
Local officials fear more victims could be discovered in the coming days.
Journalists Push for Accountability
At a tense press conference, reporters questioned why no evacuation was ordered for summer camps after the state’s emergency management team warned of flood risks the day before.
Kelly, visibly frustrated, pushed back: “This is the most dangerous river valley in the United States.
But we had no reason to believe this would happen. None.”
Reporters weren’t satisfied. “You’re the judge, the top official here,” one pressed.
“Why weren’t the kids moved?”
Confirmed Fatalities and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
As of now, six deaths have been confirmed in Kerr County, with more expected.
Some victims have yet to be identified, and authorities are using fingerprinting at local funeral homes to confirm identities.
One body was reportedly found without any clothing, underscoring the violent nature of the flood.
Officials say they’ll provide a more detailed update by the end of the day.
Roads Closed and Streets Submerged
Across the region, roads have turned into rivers. Entire neighborhoods are underwater.
In places like Hunt and Kerrville, roads are completely impassable.
Cars are stranded, and homes that once stood tall are now reduced to wreckage.