Heavy Rains Cause Devastating Floods in Texas, Leaving Over 100 Dead
The death toll in Kerr County has risen to 87 as search and rescue operations continue in central Texas, which has been ravaged by floods. Heavy rains before dawn on Friday caused the Guadalupe River to overflow, resulting in numerous fatalities and leaving behind debris, uprooted trees, and damaged vehicles.
Victims Include Adults and Children
According to Sheriff Larry Leitha, at least 56 adults and 30 children have lost their lives in Kerr County. More than a dozen victims remain unidentified, and it is unknown if the 87th fatality was an adult or a child.
Some of the victims were spending their summer at the Mystic Campground near the river, and as of Tuesday, five children and a camp counselor were still missing.
Questions Arise Over Early Warnings
Local authorities have faced tough questions regarding whether they could have issued earlier warnings about the sudden, dangerous flooding in Texas Hill Country.
Search and rescue efforts have been complicated by ongoing thunderstorms. Lieutenant Colonel Ben Baker of Texas Parks and Wildlife stated, “The work is extremely treacherous and time-consuming. It’s dirty work. The water is still there.”
President Donald Trump has announced plans to visit the affected region on Friday.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current death toll in Kerr County? The death toll has risen to 87.
- What caused the flooding in Texas? Heavy rains before dawn on Friday caused the Guadalupe River to overflow.
- Who are some of the victims? Victims include adults and children, with more than a dozen still unidentified.
- Are there any missing individuals? Five children and a camp counselor from the Mystic Campground are still missing.
- What challenges do search and rescue teams face? Teams are dealing with ongoing thunderstorms, making the work difficult and time-consuming.
- Is there criticism regarding early warnings? Local authorities have faced questions about whether earlier warnings could have been issued for the sudden, dangerous flooding.
- Will President Trump visit the affected area? Yes, President Trump plans to visit the region on Friday.
