At least 24 people have died and up to 25 girls from a summer camp are still missing after flash floods devastated the U.S. state of Texas on Friday, authorities confirmed.
U.S. President Donald Trump described the tragedy, which occurred on Independence Day, as “shocking” and “horrific.” Texas Governor Greg Abbott stated that federal officials have promised assistance.
Intense Search and Rescue Operation Underway
An overnight search and rescue operation is in progress, although Texas officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of missing individuals.
The water level rose rapidly before the river overflowed its banks. “Within 45 minutes, the Guadalupe River rose by 26 feet (about 8 meters), and the flooding was destructive, taking property and, unfortunately, human lives,” said Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick.
Patrick also reassured parents that if they haven’t been contacted, it means their children have been accounted for and are safe. “This doesn’t mean the missing children are lost. They may simply be out of contact,” he added, as reported by BBC and Gazeta Sinjali.
He thanked citizens who offered personal helicopters and drones to assist but emphasized that no additional equipment is needed. Patrick stated that rescue teams have 14 helicopters, 12 drones, nine rescue teams, and swimmers at their disposal – totaling around 400 to 500 personnel engaged on the ground.
Later in the day, Texas Guard General Thomas Suelzer confirmed that five helicopters with rescuers have been deployed, along with specialized military vehicles for evacuating citizens from flooded areas to shelters. He announced that 237 people have been rescued so far.
