Teenager Recalls Survival After Catastrophic Texas Floods

A 16-year-old camper rescued from Camp Mystic described the nightmarish floods that devastated Central Texas. “We went to sleep thinking it was just a regular thunderstorm. Suddenly, lightning struck nearby, and water started rising rapidly,” explained Callie McAlary.

She recounted how children rushed to escape the rising waters, with some cabins flooding more than others. “My cabin stayed dry, but the ones in front of us were partially submerged,” she said. Her mother, Tara Bradburn, shared her pride in the camp staff’s response, especially the counselors who kept the girls calm amid the chaos.

In a precautionary move, McAlary put her name tag on her body during the storm to assist rescue efforts if she were swept away. “I was scared the water might reach our cabin. Putting my name on my body was my way of staying prepared,” she explained.

Her mother highlighted the resilience of the camp’s staff, noting, “The water rose so quickly, even on Senior Hill, reaching flood levels we’ve never seen before. The staff did an incredible job supporting the children.”

McAlary described waking to thunder and the alarming realization that her cabin was flooding. “One girl ran in to say the cabin was flooding. Kids slept on trunks, floors, sharing beds—anything to stay safe,” she recalled.

Despite her safety, Bradburn expressed sorrow for families who have lost loved ones, emphasizing the emotional toll of the tragedy. “There are no clear answers now. As parents, we’re trying to stay strong for our children and ensure they get the support they need,” she said.

McAlary remains hopeful that missing friends will be found soon. “It’s heartbreaking to think those kids who hugged me the night before might not be coming back,” she shared.