Texas Governor Greg Abbott confirmed on Friday that more than 850 people have been successfully rescued from widespread flooding across Central Texas, as emergency teams continue to respond to one of the state’s worst natural disasters in recent memory.
The flooding, triggered by days of torrential rain and fueled in part by the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry, has devastated multiple counties, including Kerr, Travis, and Hays. Rivers such as the Guadalupe rose rapidly—at some points by nearly 30 feet—submerging roads, sweeping away vehicles, and overwhelming neighborhoods and summer camps.
Emergency crews from local agencies, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Texas National Guard have been deployed across the region, using helicopters, boats, high-water vehicles, and drones in ongoing search-and-rescue operations. According to Governor Abbott, over 1,300 emergency personnel have been mobilized, working around the clock to reach those stranded by floodwaters.
The confirmed death toll has also risen, with at least 43 lives lost in Kerr County alone—including 15 children. Many of the missing were attending Camp Mystic, a popular summer retreat near the Guadalupe River, when the flooding began. First responders continue to search for dozens still unaccounted for, with efforts focused on hard-hit areas near campsites and rural homes.
Governor Abbott praised the rescue efforts as “heroic” and urged residents in affected areas to remain alert, follow evacuation orders, and avoid flood-prone zones. He has also expanded the state’s disaster declaration to include over twenty counties and has requested additional federal assistance to support the ongoing response.
The National Weather Service has warned that further rainfall could exacerbate flooding in the coming days. Emergency shelters have been opened throughout the Hill Country, and volunteers across the state are providing aid to displaced families.
The scale of the disaster has drawn national attention, with President Trump pledging federal resources and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem coordinating relief support with state officials.
As search and recovery operations continue, Texas communities are bracing for more challenges ahead. With hundreds already rescued and more at risk, officials say the coming days will be critical in minimizing further loss and beginning the long path to recovery.
