Central Texas is reeling after devastating flash floods swept through the region early on the morning of July 4th, leaving at least 104 people dead including 28 children and many more still missing.
Among the hardest hit locations is Camp Mystic in Hunt, Texas, which has reported the heartbreaking loss of 27 campers and counselors. As of this afternoon, ten campers and one counselor are still missing.
Governor Greg Abbott responded to the crisis with a forceful commitment of state resources. “Texas is working tirelessly to assist local officials with recovery and rescue operations. Heavy rain continues to be a threat. Texans should be weather aware. Texas will not stop until every missing person is found,” the Governor said in a statement shared on X.
The National Weather Service issued multiple Flash Flood Warnings across central Texas on Monday, citing dangerous rainfall rates and rising waterways. Forecasts warn of continued rain in the coming days, posing an ongoing threat to already-saturated areas including Central Texas, the Hill Country, Big Country, and the Concho Valley.
To support local response efforts, the Texas State Operations Center remains at Level II (Escalated Response). The state has deployed over 1,750 personnel, more than 975 vehicles and equipment assets, and drawn support from more than 20 state agencies.
Key responders include:
•Texas Division of Emergency Management – Coordinating statewide deployments and disaster recovery teams.
•Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service Task Forces – Operating swiftwater rescue squads, urban search and rescue teams, and K-9 units.
•Texas National Guard – Using high-profile vehicles and Blackhawk helicopters for rescues and critical transport.
•Texas Parks and Wildlife, Department of Public Safety, and Forest Service – Conducting aerial and on-the-ground rescue missions, clearing roads, and aiding stranded residents.
•Texas Department of State Health Services, Health and Human Services Commission, and other agencies – Providing medical aid, shelter coordination, and disaster support.
•Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team – Assisting animals affected by flooding.
Utility coordination, infrastructure monitoring, insurance claims support, and agricultural aid are also being provided by agencies including the Public Utility Commission, Railroad Commission, Department of Insurance, and Department of Agriculture.
President Donald Trump expressed his sympathy to the families of the victims and intends to visit the impacted areas.
President Trump has also signed a disaster declaration, thereby activating the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The flooding occurred after the Guadalupe River overflowed due to heavy rainfall in central Texas on Friday.
Texans are urged to access disaster.texas.gov for details on flood resources, safety guidelines, and recovery aid. To stay prepared as flood risks remain, residents should stay updated on local forecasts and follow alerts issued by local authorities.
Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri.
