Texas Flash Floods Kill 27, Search Continues for Missing Girls

Flash floods in Texas' Kerr County, triggered by rapid rising waters in the Guadalupe River, have killed at least 27 people, including nine children, with the death toll expected to rise as search efforts continue. Approximately 23 to 27 individuals, mostly girls from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp along the river, remain missing amidst ongoing rescue operations involving helicopters, boats, and drones. Officials confirmed that the floodwaters surged 26 feet in just 45 minutes, devastating homes, camps, and vehicles, and caught many residents and campers by surprise overnight. The Heart O' the Hills Camp also mourned the loss of its director, Jane Ragsdale, who died during the floods, while many victims remain unidentified. Authorities and state officials, including Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, have declared disasters and mobilized resources for continuous 24/7 rescue efforts. Families and communities are anxiously awaiting updates as officials investigate the adequacy of warnings and preparedness ahead of the flood event.