A devastating flood in Texas has claimed the lives of at least 27 people, including nine children, as rescue teams scramble to locate the missing, according to The Weather Channel. The catastrophe unfolded following a powerful storm that overwhelmed the region, with authorities particularly focused on the search for 25 children from a summer camp who remain unaccounted for, sparking widespread concern.
The Guadalupe River surged rapidly, submerging vast areas and sweeping through homes, vehicles, and campsites. ABC News reported that more than 160 aerial rescues were conducted, successfully evacuating approximately 850 individuals from flooded zones, rooftops, and campgrounds. Eight people sustained injuries ranging from mild to moderate and were flown to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick described the flooding as a disaster without precedent. “Not a single drop of rain fell before the tragedy, and then suddenly — a massive storm caused the river to rise by 7 meters in less than an hour,” he told Reuters, underlining the sheer speed and force of the flooding.
The storm struck as Americans celebrated Independence Day, compounding the heartbreak. One of the hardest-hit places was the “Mystic” summer camp, where hundreds of children were spending the holiday. Thirteen-year-old camper Linor Lester recounted the harrowing ordeal to CNN: “The camp was completely flooded. Suddenly, a helicopter appeared and started rescuing us. It was very frightening.”
According to AccuWeather, forecasters had alerted Texas officials hours before the flooding began. However, as NBC News reported, the company criticized the state’s failure to act quickly. “They had hours to evacuate,” the forecast provider said, suggesting a missed opportunity to prevent loss of life.
Still, Texas Emergency Management Division Chief NIM Kid defended the state’s response, explaining to Fox News that the actual storm intensity exceeded any prediction. “No one predicted the amount of rainfall — it was far beyond the forecasts,” he stated.
President Donald Trump issued a message of sympathy for those impacted. A statement from the White House read: “Melania and I are praying for everyone affected by this tragedy. Our brave rescue teams are doing their work with tireless dedication. God bless Texas.”
Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed his sorrow via social media, saying, “Heartbroken by the devastating floods in Texas. On behalf of the people of Israel, I extend my deepest condolences to all the people of Texas, to Governor Greg Abbott TX, a true friend of Israel who stood with us in our darkest hour, and to all the families mourning unimaginable loss, especially of young children at summer camp.”
“We admire the courage of the first responders and rescue teams working tirelessly to save lives, and we hope and pray that more survivors will be found safe. The people of Israel stand in solidarity with the people of Texas at this painful time.”
{Matzav.com}
