Death Toll Rises to 81 in Central Texas Floods; Dozens Still Missing, Including Campers

Central Texas is grappling with the aftermath of unprecedented flash floods that have claimed the lives of at least 81 individuals, with 41 still unaccounted for. Concerns are growing for the children who remain missing at Camp Mystic. 

Early Friday, the Guadalupe River surged 26 feet in a mere 45 minutes as a stationary storm unleashed significantly more rain than anticipated, causing chaos in Kerr County and neighboring regions.

Tragically, the confirmed fatalities include 13-year-old Blair Harber and 11-year-old Brooke Harber from Dallas, as announced by St. Rita Catholic Community on Saturday. The sisters were with their grandparents near the Guadalupe River, who are still unaccounted for. 

A prayer service took place at St. Rita to commemorate their lives, with Pastor Fr. Joshua Whitfield encouraging prayers for the Harber family during this deeply sorrowful period.

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha reported that out of 81 fatalities, 68 took place in Kerr County, comprising 40 adults and 28 children—18 adults and 10 children are still unidentified. Authorities have reported that 10 campers and one counselor are unaccounted for at Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp that had 750 children present when the floods occurred. Initial assessments suggested that as many as 27 campers were unaccounted for.

The river surged dramatically, approaching historic levels in Kerrville, as the Guadalupe attained its second-highest elevation ever documented. 

In a remarkable operation, emergency responders have successfully rescued over 850 individuals, with 160 of those being airlifted. The U.S. Coast Guard has played a crucial role in saving more than 220 lives. Efforts are ongoing as helicopters, drones, and ground teams meticulously comb through the debris-laden riverbanks and fallen trees.

Governor Greg Abbott and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem have activated resources at both the state and federal levels. President Donald Trump committed to providing comprehensive federal assistance, vowing to support efforts in rescue, recovery, and rebuilding.

Local officials described the destruction as unprecedented, with numerous communities cut off from electricity, water, and transportation routes. Families are actively seeking answers for their missing loved ones. The emotional strain is increasing for both survivors and first responders as the recovery efforts continue.

Officials are advising residents to steer clear of flooded areas, adhere to evacuation directives, and stay informed via official sources, as additional rainfall is expected in the upcoming days.

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