What was meant to be a weekend of celebration has turned into one of the deadliest natural disasters in Texas history. More than 100 people are confirmed dead, and at least 173 remain missing after catastrophic flash floods tore through Central Texas during the Fourth of July holiday.
Most of the devastation is concentrated in Kerr County, a rural region west of Austin known for its rivers and rugged terrain. Governor Greg Abbott confirmed Tuesday that 161 of the missing are from that single county — a staggering number that quadrupled from earlier estimates of 40.
“Entire families are gone. Entire neighborhoods wiped clean,” said Kerrville Fire Chief Mike Sandoval. “What we’re seeing is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in 30 years of service.”
Death Toll Rising
As of Tuesday morning, the official death toll stands at 111, with 87 fatalities in Kerr County alone — including 30 children.
“The water came so fast, there was no time to escape,” said eyewitness Carla Jenkins, who watched helplessly as floodwaters swept through her neighborhood. “One minute we were lighting sparklers, the next we were climbing onto rooftops.”
Rescue and Recovery Underway
Emergency crews — bolstered by volunteers, National Guard units, and FEMA teams — continue to comb through destroyed homes, flipped vehicles, and debris-choked rivers. Makeshift morgues have been set up at local fairgrounds and churches.
Authorities have opened hotlines for families searching for missing loved ones, while local shelters are overwhelmed with evacuees, many of whom escaped with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
Federal Response and Trump’s Visit
President Donald Trump issued a Major Disaster Declaration late Saturday, triggering the deployment of FEMA personnel and federal funding. “The federal government will not rest until every Texan is safe and accounted for,” Trump said in a statement. He is expected to tour the hardest-hit areas on Friday.
The weather system that triggered the floods dumped over 15 inches of rain in less than 48 hours — overwhelming creeks, dams, and drainage systems across the Hill Country. Experts say it’s one of the worst flash flood events in state history.
A Community in Mourning
Church bells across Kerr County tolled at noon Tuesday in honor of the lives lost. But for many, closure remains out of reach.
“I’m still hoping my sister will call,” said resident Darius Long, whose family remains missing. “But I’m preparing for the worst.”
With dozens still unaccounted for and more storms on the horizon, officials say the final toll could be even higher.
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Oh my God please comfort all these Families who are still missing
Bless families who have identified their loved ones
In Jesus holy name
Amen Amen Amen
This is the 4th such horrible deadly flood in that area in past 50 years! Ultra loud sirens and high speed escape routes should have been in place by now!