The Storm’s Fury: Texas County of Kerr Hit by Relentless Rainfall
Heavy rainfall battering several cities in the Kerr County of Texas on Friday morning led to the overflow of the Guadalupe River, causing widespread destruction. The river inundated riparian neighborhoods, uprooted trees and buildings, crashed into rural homes, and devastated children’s summer camp zones.
Joyce Bandon, 21, Among the Missing
Joyce Bandon, a 21-year-old, and three friends were staying at a friend’s countryside home near the Guadalupe River to celebrate Independence Day weekend. Despite relentless rain throughout the night, they were unable to find shelter in time.
“The house collapsed around 4 a.m., and the last message received by her parents was ‘We’re being taken by the water,’ before losing signal,” explained Louis Deppe, 62, a search volunteer and family friend, to AFP.
Community Mobilizes for Search and Rescue
Deppe, leading a group of volunteers, emphasized the importance of teamwork in their search efforts: “We work in teams of two or three. One person might miss a crucial detail, like someone clinging to a tree amidst debris. More eyes mean better chances of spotting someone.”
As the Guadalupe River begins to regain its composure, the riverbanks remain a scene of destruction. A cow hangs from a tree, its head wedged between branches, while a crushed pickup truck and dozens of decomposing fish lie among the wreckage.
The constant whirring of helicopters searching for bodies and small boats navigating the river, accompanied by state security forces patrolling on foot, fills the air.
Discoveries and Ongoing Search
Tina Hambly, 55, Joyce’s best friend and roommate’s mother, sifts through debris with a kayak paddle, hoping for any sign.
“We’re covering an 11-kilometer stretch, divided into seven teams, each traversing over 1.5 kilometers in search of Joyce or any other missing individuals,” Hambly explained. “Local families and strangers alike are lending a hand.”
In Hunt, one of the hardest-hit areas, the Mystic Camp summer camp reported dozens of 8- and 9-year-old girls missing. Their belongings were scattered, and their cabins were overtaken by mud.
Volunteers searching for Joyce have made some discoveries:
- On Saturday morning, they found two girls early on.
- Around 10 a.m., they discovered a small girl wrapped in debris in a tree, assisted by Rangers and police. She was confirmed to be from the Mystic Camp, one of those reported missing.
“We’re glad to provide closure for families and hope to find more individuals,” said Justin Morales, 36, a search volunteer. “Our goal is to help some families find peace; that’s why we’re here.”
