Texas Floods 2025: Rising Death Toll and the Search for the Missing

July 9, 2025

As rescue operations enter a sixth day in Central Texas, the search continues for over 170 missing individuals following catastrophic flash floods over the July 4 weekend. The official death toll has risen to 119, with Kerr County accounting for the vast majority of confirmed fatalities.

Camp Mystic: Epicenter of Heartbreak

At least 27 campers and counselors were confirmed dead at Camp Mystic, a historic girls' summer camp on the banks of the Guadalupe River. Over 550 children were present at the camp when the river rose dramatically—more than 26 feet in just 45 minutes.

Rescue teams are still searching for five campers and one counselor from Camp Mystic. Families and community members have described the event as a nightmare, with many children waking up to rushing water flooding through windows.

Guadalupe River Swells Across Flash Flood Alley

The Guadalupe River, spanning 230 miles, is prone to sudden flooding due to the surrounding terrain, earning it the nickname "Flash Flood Alley." The July 4 storm delivered over 20 inches of rain in some areas, triggering deadly surges across multiple counties.

In addition to Kerr County, fatalities were reported in Travis, Burnet, Kendall, Williamson, and Tom Green counties.

Emergency Response Under Strain

Hundreds of rescuers, including state and federal emergency teams, are working with volunteers to comb debris and isolated areas. Rescue conditions have been made difficult by impassable rural roads, poor cell reception, and submerged low-water crossings that left many residents trapped.

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick emphasized the urgency of infrastructure upgrades, stating, “If they can’t afford to do it, let us do it.” A special legislative session has been scheduled to address flood preparedness and alert systems.

Debate Over Flood Warnings and Forecasting

While the National Weather Service issued 22 flood alerts for Kerr County, many residents reported receiving no warnings. Questions have been raised about recent federal budget cuts affecting the NWS and the vacancy of key forecasting roles in Texas weather offices.

Local officials acknowledged the lack of a public siren system in the region, citing funding constraints. A previously rejected grant application for such a system has now become a central issue in the political aftermath of the disaster.

Federal Support and Mental Health Emergency

Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Department of Health and Human Services is declaring a public health emergency to facilitate deployment of medical and psychological aid. Telemedicine and out-of-state providers will assist victims and responders.

Survivors and Families Speak Out

Among the survivors is 19-year-old Leo Romero Jr., who alerted his family before floodwaters hit their home in Kerrville. Sadly, his father, stepmother, and toddler brother are still missing. Country singer Pat Green also confirmed the loss of relatives in the floods, underscoring the personal toll the tragedy has taken.

Looking Ahead: Lessons from a Climate Crisis

Experts are drawing connections between the intensity of this disaster and ongoing climate change patterns affecting the American South. As lawmakers prepare to act, residents are calling for immediate improvements to infrastructure, forecasting systems, and emergency communication.

Until then, the people of Texas Hill Country continue to endure a long, painful recovery—marked by both heartbreak and resilience.