Flooding at a Christian Girls’ Summer Camp Leads to Missing Children and Fatalities

Severe flooding in Texas resulted in the apparent destruction of Camp Mystic, leaving approximately 23 girls unaccounted for and raising fear that some may have drowned. The floodwaters, described as “catastrophic,” caused cabins to wash away along the Guadalupe River, with surrounding roads also severely affected.

In total, at least 13 fatalities have been reported in Kerr County, with ongoing search efforts for those missing. Authorities believe some children may still be alive, possibly stranded in trees or out of communication.

During the storm, the camp was evacuated, but several campers were left behind due to the extreme conditions. Rescue teams, including over 500 personnel, 18 helicopters, drones, and dive units, are actively searching for survivors and recovering bodies. Some bodies recovered include individuals inside vehicles or swept from the river.

Efforts to locate the missing are focused, but road washouts hinder access, complicating rescue operations. Families have been assured that as soon as children are found, they will be transported to reunite with loved ones. Camp staff sent an email to families, confirming the loss of power, water, and Wi-Fi, and emphasizing that if families haven’t been contacted, their children are safe.

Authorities are urging the public to stay away from affected areas for safety reasons. A designated reunion point is expected to be announced once search and rescue have located all missing individuals.

Emergency services, including the Texas National Guard, are continuously conducting helicopter searches, while the US Coast Guard and FEMA are assisting. The region remains under threat, with continued rainfall likely to sustain or worsen flooding. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for residents near the Guadalupe River to move to higher ground.

Officials warn that the death toll is expected to rise as more bodies are recovered in the ongoing search.