Texas flash floods: At least 27 dead, over 20 girls missing from summer camp

Among those missing are over 20 girls from Camp Mystic, which hosted about 750 attendees. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick confirmed that between six and 10 bodies had been recovered by Friday afternoon. “Some are adults, some are children,” he said. Families of campers gathered at reunification centers, many in tears as they awaited word from authorities.

Search crews, including nine rescue teams, 14 helicopters, and 12 drones, are working nonstop. A river gauge at Hunt recorded a rapid 22-foot (6.7 metres) rise in about two hours before it stopped functioning after reaching 29.5 feet (9 metres).

Members of Task Force 1 deploy boats along the Guadalupe River in the wake of a destructive flooding event in Kerrville. (The San Antonio Express-News via AP)

Despite a forecast warning of rain and potential flooding, many residents say they received no alerts.

Flash flood alley’s tragic legacy

Known as “flash flood alley,” the region’s geography—thin soil and steep terrain—makes it particularly vulnerable. Austin Dickson of the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country said the area has long struggled with sudden flooding.

Known as “flash flood alley,” the region’s geography—thin soil and steep terrain—makes it particularly vulnerable. (AP Photo)

Popular for river tourism and historic summer camps, the area between Hunt and Ingram is dotted with homes, cabins, and resorts along the Guadalupe River. “It’s generally a very tranquil river,” Dickson said. “People have been attracted to it for generations.”

Meanwhile, in central New Jersey, severe storms led to at least three deaths, including two men killed by a falling tree in Plainfield. The city canceled its Fourth of July events in the aftermath.

Authorities in Texas continue search and rescue operations amid fears the death toll may rise further.

(With inputs from AP)