The search continues for more than 160 people still unaccounted for following catastrophic flash floods that ravaged central Texas over the weekend. Texas Governor Greg Abbott confirmed Tuesday that at least 109 people have died, and the toll is expected to rise as hopes for finding survivors dwindle.
Kerr County, located in the region known as “Flash Flood Alley,” has borne the brunt of the disaster, with at least 94 fatalities. Among the hardest-hit areas is a youth summer camp along the Guadalupe River, where fast-rising waters in the early hours of July 4th swept away cabins as campers slept. Governor Abbott reported that five children and one counselor remain missing, along with another unrelated child in the area.
“Just in the Kerr County area alone, there are 161 people who are known to be missing,” Abbott said. “There very likely could be more added to that list.”
Rescue and recovery operations have been hampered by mud, debris, and continued rainfall. Texas Game Wardens, assisted by helicopters, drones, and search dogs, are working around the clock under treacherous conditions. “These large piles of debris are hazardous and time-consuming to get through,” said Ben Baker, a spokesperson for the team.
In the town of Hunt, one of the epicenters of the flooding, recovery workers continue to comb through thick mud and debris. Javier Torres, 24, searching for his grandmother’s body, had already found the remains of his grandfather and two unidentified children.
Meanwhile, flash flood emergencies have been declared as far as Ruidoso, New Mexico, where the Rio Ruidoso reportedly crested over 20 feet, damaging multiple homes and trapping residents.
The floods have sparked criticism over the federal response and concerns that budget cuts under the Trump administration may have weakened warning systems. Experts cite the region’s exceptional drought conditions and rising temperatures as factors exacerbating the flood’s intensity.
Despite the ongoing rain, authorities insist the weather will not deter their search. “Right now, this team is focused on bringing people home,” said Baker.
President Trump is expected to visit Texas on Friday alongside First Lady Melania Trump to assess the damage and meet with survivors.
