KERRVILLE, TEXAS – July 4, 2025 – Tragedy has struck the Hill Country as devastating flash floods in Kerrville, Texas, have left more than 20 individuals missing, including young girls attending Camp Mystic, after the Guadalupe River surged over 26 feet in a matter of hours, tearing through cabins, roads, and communities along its banks.
The sudden rise in river levels occurred following a powerful storm system that dumped torrential rain across the region late Wednesday night into Thursday morning. What began as a summer camp week for many children and families has turned into a desperate rescue mission, as floodwaters engulfed portions of Kerr County, cutting off access and communication to entire areas.
Camp Mystic in Crisis
Among the missing are several young girls from Camp Mystic, a well-known summer camp located along the Guadalupe River, cherished by generations of Texas families. According to local officials, a number of the camp’s riverside cabins were swept away by the floodwaters, with campers and staff separated during the chaotic evacuation effort. Some children are believed to have been carried downstream or isolated in remote locations with no access to cell service or transportation.
Family members from across the state have rushed to the area, hoping for word about their loved ones. Camp counselors and first responders are working together, trying to account for everyone who was present at the time the flooding hit.
Emergency Response and Ongoing Search Efforts
Search and rescue operations have continued around the clock, with efforts led by the Kerr County Emergency Management, Texas Task Force 1, local fire departments, and swift water rescue teams. Drones, helicopters, boats, and ground crews have been deployed throughout the flooded zones.
Authorities fear that some individuals may be stranded on high ground, trapped in trees, or even swept into remote stretches of the Guadalupe River. First responders are urging anyone in the region to stay indoors, avoid flooded areas, and report any sightings or calls for help immediately.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha stated in a morning briefing:
“This is one of the most dangerous flooding events we’ve seen in years. We’re throwing every resource we have into bringing these kids and other missing residents home safely. Please, if you have information, call 9-1-1 immediately.”
Community in Shock, Families in Agony
Kerrville residents, many of whom have weathered storms before, say the sheer speed and force of this flood was unlike anything they’ve experienced. Roads have collapsed, entire properties have been submerged, and rescue workers are battling thick debris, fast-moving currents, and unstable terrain.
Social media is flooded with photos, pleas for help, and offers of assistance. Dozens of volunteers have shown up with boats, food, blankets, and supplies, while churches and schools have opened their doors to shelter the displaced.
Parents of the missing campers have gathered at staging areas, anxiously waiting for updates or any sign of their children. The emotional toll is rising as hours pass without news.
Stay Safe & Stay Updated
Authorities are urging residents and visitors in Kerrville and the surrounding areas to:
•Avoid travel near the Guadalupe River, especially near low-water crossings.
•Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways — more than 70% of flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.
•Follow updates from Kerr County Emergency Services and Camp Mystic.
•Report any information related to missing persons or flood victims to 9-1-1 immediately.
As of Friday morning, the full extent of the disaster is still unfolding. Rain has eased, but the Guadalupe River remains dangerously high, and damage assessments are only beginning.
The hearts of Texas — and the nation — are with Kerrville today, as search crews race against time to find the missing, especially the young campers whose families are clinging to hope.
IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION, CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY.