The death toll from the sudden floods in Texas, USA, has risen to 51, with 15 of the victims being children, local authorities reported late last night (05.07.2025). Rescue teams continue searching desperately for over 30 missing children feared trapped under debris or swept away by raging waters.
The catastrophic flooding was triggered by torrential rains that hit Central Texas on Friday, submerging entire communities and leaving behind a trail of devastation. According to an AFP count based on official data, 43 people lost their lives in Kerr County — the hardest-hit area — while seven more died in three other counties.
Emergency responders are racing against time to locate survivors and recover bodies, as flash flood warnings remain in effect across the region. The disaster struck on the eve of the U.S. Independence Day holiday (July 4), a national celebration marked this year by tragedy and mourning.
Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed the grim update: ’28 adults and 15 children have been confirmed dead.’ Among the missing are at least 30 girls who were attending a summer camp along the banks of the Guadalupe River. Officials say they fear the worst but refuse to give up hope.
‘Our search will be relentless,’ said Texas Governor Greg Abbott during a press conference alongside Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. ‘We won’t stop today or tomorrow. We’ll stop when our mission is complete.’
In the flooded camp area, water levels receded Saturday morning, revealing the scale of destruction — dozens of stranded vehicles, uprooted trees, and damaged homes. Journalists on the ground report scenes of chaos and despair.
Hundreds of rescuers, supported by 14 helicopters, have been deployed in the operation. The Texas National Guard and Coast Guard have also joined the efforts, mobilizing equipment and personnel to assist in recovery and evacuation missions.
Meteorological reports indicate that the Guadalupe River rose nearly 8 meters in less than an hour on Friday, after 300 millimeters of rain fell — one-third of the county’s average annual rainfall.