At least 27 individuals have lost their lives due to severe rainfall that led to flash flooding in central Texas on Friday, as confirmed by authorities. Over 20 children are reported missing from Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ camp located along the Guadalupe River. This area experienced a rapid rise in water levels, with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick noting the river surged 26 feet within just 45 minutes, wreaking havoc across the region.
Another camp, Heart O’ the Hills, announced the tragic passing of its director, Jane Ragsdale, as a direct result of the floods. In a heartfelt statement, the camp expressed their sorrow, saying, “We have received word that Jane Ragsdale did not make it. We are mourning the loss of a woman who influenced countless lives and was the definition of strong and powerful.” Fortunately, the camp was not in session when the flooding occurred, and most individuals present at the time have been accounted for and relocated to higher ground.
The National Weather Service reported that the Guadalupe River at Hunt reached its second-highest recorded level on Friday. Additionally, they issued warnings for “dangerous and life-threatening flooding and heavy rain” affecting areas such as Burnet, western Williamson, and northwestern Travis counties.
Images documenting the devastation caused by the flooding and the ongoing search and rescue operations reflect the urgent situation at hand.