Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick addressed the public from the State Emergency Operations Center in Austin with a sobering update following this week’s devastating flash floods in Central Texas. Of the approximately 750 campers who had gathered at Camp Mystic, a girls-only summer retreat along the Guadalupe River, 23 remain unaccounted for—an update that has shaken communities across the region.
On Friday, July 4, a sudden and powerful storm dropped more than a foot of rain in under three hours, rapidly swelling the river to near-record levels. Cabins located near the shoreline were overtaken within minutes, prompting an emergency evacuation. While camp staff acted quickly and most of the girls were moved to higher ground, the fast-moving floodwaters made parts of the camp inaccessible before all could be safely evacuated.
Families of the missing have gathered at reunification sites including Ingram Elementary School and local churches. Volunteers are helping provide meals, warm clothing, and emotional support as parents await word on their children’s whereabouts. Many hold photos, sharing stories of the last phone calls or messages received. One mother spoke of her daughter’s bravery in helping younger campers put on safety gear before the storm intensified.
In response to the evolving situation, search and rescue operations have significantly expanded. More than 300 responders—from state dive teams and volunteer rescue groups to Coast Guard and National Guard units—are working around the clock. The efforts include specialized equipment such as sonar imaging, thermal drones, and trained search dogs, with a focus on both the campgrounds and a two-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River downstream.
Officials note that the conditions remain extremely challenging due to swift currents, underwater obstacles, and unstable terrain. “These are complex operations in difficult environments, but our teams remain committed,” said Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha. “We will continue searching until we have done everything possible to locate the missing.”
Amid the search, attention has turned to how the disaster unfolded so quickly. Some local leaders have raised concerns about the timeliness of flood alerts, pointing to staff shortages and equipment limitations at weather forecast centers. The National Weather Service acknowledged the challenges, noting that while warnings were issued, the storm’s intensity developed faster than anticipated.
In the days since the flooding, communities have mobilized to support both the families and the responders. Churches and nonprofits have provided hot meals, donated gear, and converted school gyms into emergency support hubs. Local businesses have pitched in with boats, supplies, and volunteers to aid the recovery effort.
State lawmakers are now calling for a full review of flood-preparedness systems, including modernizing river gauges and enhancing communication between meteorologists and local emergency teams. Lieutenant Governor Patrick expressed support for these initiatives, stating, “Our focus now is on helping every family and ensuring Texas is better prepared for events like this in the future.”
Despite the ongoing uncertainty, hope remains. Counselors and volunteers believe some of the missing girls may have sought shelter in nearby wooded areas. Search crews continue to explore all possibilities, encouraged by reports of sounds heard during early rescue operations.
As the sun sets over the waterlogged landscape, boats continue their slow sweep along the river, guided by determination, expertise, and faith. For the families awaiting news, each passing hour is a test of patience and strength. And for the broader Texas community, this mission has become a symbol of unity, resilience, and the deep resolve to bring every camper safely home.
