At least 13 people have died in Texas due to a sudden flood after the rise of the Guadalupe River, which has swept away several homes and forced the evacuation of all residents in Kerr County, north of San Antonio, who lived near the riverbed.
The county sheriff, Larry L. Leithal, confirmed the death of at least 13 people in a press conference, although he has not ruled out the possibility that the number of victims may increase as “there are still several missing persons.”
Due to strong storms during the night, this Friday morning the river suddenly rose about 7 meters (22 feet), the second highest level in its historical record, according to the National Meteorological Service, which maintains its orange alert for the area due to flooding.
The county police, in a message posted on their Facebook account, described the situation as “catastrophic.” “Those near streams, creeks, and the Guadalupe River should move immediately to higher ground, and those already taking shelter: stay in your homes and do not attempt to move,” they warned.
The governor, Greg Abbott, emphasized that the state will put “all available resources” to help those affected. “The immediate priority is to save lives”, he said, echoing the work of emergency services working around the clock to locate people who may have become trapped.
Concern for dozens of missing girls
Around twenty girls are missing due to the severe floods in a Christian summer camp in southern Texas. Storms hit the region overnight, catching the camp occupants by surprise while they were sleeping.
According to NBC News, during a press conference held on Friday afternoon, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick reported that at least 20 children had not been located after the disaster. He later updated the number to approximately 23 girls, all attendees of Camp Mystic, located in Hunt, a small community about 70 kilometers from San Antonio.
This camp, founded almost 100 years ago, welcomes girls aged 7 to 17 every summer. At the time of the incident, around 750 minors were enrolled at the site, which has raised great concern among families and local authorities, who continue with search and rescue efforts.
Several girls have been rescued by helicopters from the camp.