At least 78 people, including 28 children, have died due to devastating floods in Texas, officials confirmed on Sunday. The disaster struck after torrential rains caused the Guadalupe River to overflow on the U.S. Independence Day holiday. Rescue operations continue, with 41 people still missing and fears of more flooding prompting fresh evacuations.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott described the situation as “horrific,” especially at Camp Mystic, a summer camp where 11 individuals, including 10 girls and one counselor, remain unaccounted for. More than 850 people have already been rescued, with some pulled from trees or rooftops. Emergency workers are now preparing for another possible wave of floodwater as rain continues.
President Donald Trump expressed his condolences and announced plans to visit the affected areas on Friday. Speaking to reporters, he said, “God bless all the people who have gone through so much.” Trump also issued a major disaster declaration, allowing federal aid to assist local authorities and activated FEMA support.
However, criticism has emerged over the federal response. Some experts argue that staff cuts in the National Weather Service under Trump’s administration may have impacted the accuracy of flood forecasts. Former NOAA officials warned that reduced forecasting capacity could result in slower warnings and greater tragedy in such extreme weather events.
Despite questions about disaster preparedness, Homeland Security and FEMA have been coordinating rescue missions using helicopters and boats. Meanwhile, officials continue to evacuate certain areas due to reports of a new wave of floodwater traveling down the Guadalupe Rivershed. First responders remain on high alert to prevent further loss of life.
Scenes from Camp Mystic highlight the damage. Cabins were filled with mud and water up to six feet high, with furniture and belongings destroyed. One camp counselor described the chaos, saying the children were terrified as power went out and military trucks arrived for evacuation. The full scale of the devastation is still unfolding as recovery efforts continue.