TEXAS – As we continue to learn more about the catastrophic flood that hit Central Texas on July Fourth, killing more than 40 people and leaving more than 20 still missing, we are working to provide updates as they become available.
The destructive, fast-moving waters rose 26 feet on the Guadalupe River in just 45 minutes before daybreak Friday, washing away homes and vehicles. The danger was not over as rains continued pounding communities outside San Antonio on Saturday and flash flood warnings and watches remained in effect.
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Searchers used helicopters, boats and drones to look for victims and to rescue people stranded in trees and from camps isolated by washed-out roads.
Gov. Greg Abbott vowed that authorities would work around the clock and said new areas were being searched as the water receded. He declared Sunday a day of prayer for the state.
“I urge every Texan to join me in prayer this Sunday — for the lives lost, for those still missing, for the recovery of our communities, and for the safety of those on the front lines,” he said in a statement.
The hills along the Guadalupe River in central Texas are dotted with century-old youth camps and campgrounds where generations of families have come to swim and enjoy the outdoors. The area is especially popular around the July Fourth holiday, making it more difficult to know how many are missing.
On Saturday, during a news conference, Abbott said 27 people were still missing, but it’s not clear if that’s the total number missing or just the missing girls from Camp Mystic.
Social media has been swarming with posts about missing loved ones. Here’s how you can report a missing loved one to authorities.
Email kerrvillemissing@dps.texas.gov with the name and description of the missing person. You can also provide photos to aid in identification.
Also, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said families can report people who are still missing by calling 830-258-1111 or by sending an email to floodrecovery@co.kerr.tx.us .