Texas floods latest: Over 160 missing and at least 109 dead as full scale of the disaster becomes clear

Key Points

• Death toll from Texas flooding disaster reaches 109
• With a dozen still missing, hopes of finding survivors dwindle
• Mapped: Counties hit hardest by flash floods
• Trump confirms Texas visit with Melania on Friday
• Texas meteorologists under fire over accusations flood alerts came too late

Man who survived Texas flood of 1987 said he was ‘quite shocked’ by July 4 disaster

Reverend David Simmons, who survived a flash flood along the Guadalupe River in the summer of 1987, told CNN he was “quite shocked” by the July 4 disaster.

When he heard the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in 45 minutes, it “brought me right back to where we were 38 years ago.”

The 1987 flash flood along the Guadalupe River killed 10 teenagers and injured 33 others when waters rose 29 feet.

Speaking of the current disaster, Simmons said, “ I would hope that our public officials could get serious about what it would take to prevent this from happening.”

In the aftermath of this catastrophe, some have questioned why those in the flood zone were not alerted sooner.

But former forecasters at the National Weather Service defended Texas meteorologists and said warnings were as timely as they should have been, Julia Musto wrote.

Death toll rises to 111: report

Texas Governor Greg Abbott said the number of victims rose to 109 during a Tuesday afternoon press conference.

Later, the NYT reported a death toll of 111 after Williamson County officials said they recovered a third body.

Abbott: Texas officials were not prepared for 'a 30-foot-high tsunami wall of water'

Greg Abbott said that although Texas state officials were aware of a possible serious flooding event days before the disastrous flash flooding in Kerr County, they did not know the magnitude of the storm.

“No one would know that would be a 30-foot-high tsunami wall of water, I don’t think,” Abbott told reporters Tuesday.

“All I can tell you is the information we had, the state had, and that we acted on, was information that catalyzed us to begin putting assets and resources in place two days before the event happened.”

Watch: Abbott says media is using 'the word choice of losers'

Emergency alert system will be addressed in Texas state legislature

Abbott said that the emergency alert system is “going to be one of the issues that we begin to address in less than two weeks in the state legislature” after reports emerged that not all people received warnings of the approaching floods.

“We’re going to address every aspect of this storm to make sure that we’re going to have in place the systems that are needed to prevent deadly flooding events like this in the future,” Abbott told reporters at a press conference Tuesday.

Abbott uses football metaphor in response to question over blame

Greg Abbott used an extended metaphor about football in response to a question about who was to blame for the flooding devastation.

“Whose to blame?... That’s the word choice of losers. Let me explain something about Texas, everyone cares about football,” he said.

“Know this: every football team makes mistakes. The losing teams are the ones that like to point out whose to blame.

“The championship teams are the ones that say ‘don’t worry about man, we got this, we’re gonna go score again and we’re gonna win this thing.

“The way winners talk is not to point fingers, they talk about solutions. What Texas is all about is solutions.”

Texas Governor says Trump 'cares a lot' about flood victims

Governor Abbott of Texas praised the response of the Trump administration, telling reporters Wednesday that the president wanted to “step up” to ensure the needs of the state were met.

“He could not stop talking about how sad he was for all the little girls who have lost their lives,” Abbott recalling a conversation with the president.

“He recounted his own understanding of what happened with what was really a tsunami wave of wall of water that swept too many of them away.”

Abbot provides further numbers on victims

At Wednesday’s press conference, Greg Abbott promised that “Texas is in this in this with the people.”

“The primary job right now continues to be locating everybody who was affected by this flood,” he said. “We have to find every single person who is missing - that’s job number one.”

About confirmed that there had been 94 fatalities associated with this flooding event in the Kerr County area and a further 15 in other parts, bringing the total to 109.

He also confirmed that there were still five campers missing from Camp Mystic, as well as one counselor.

Governor Abbott says that there are 161 people missing in Kerr County

Texas Governor Greg Abbott said that there were 161 people who were known to be missing as a result of the flooding.

“Know this: we will not stop until every missing person is accounted for,” he told reporters Tuesday afternoon.

“There could very likley be more people added to the list.”

Greg Abbott about to hold press conference

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has arrived to begin a press conference update alongside local officials and first responders from Kerr County.

Kerrville City Council to hold meeting at 7 p.m. ET

The Kerrville City Council will hold a meeting this evening at 7 p.m. ET, the city has said.

The meeting will take place at Kerrville City Hall to discuss the mayor’s disaster declaration and other emergency response matters, according to a public notice.

“The City’s response continues to require immediate action, which is required because of an imminent threat to public health and safety, including a threat caused by the flood, rain, power failure, and other conditions,” the notice said.

Texas governor Greg Abbott takes aerial tour of area

Texas governor Greg Abbott is currently taking an aerial tour of area devastated by flooding.

Abbott is then scheduled to provide updates to media on operations.

Houston Astros announce $1 million donation to flood relief

The Houston Astros baseball team have announced they are committing $1 million to support relief efforts for those impacted by the devastating flooding in Central Texas.

Beyond the initial investment, the Astros Foundation will launch a fan-based initiative to mobilize our passionate fan base.

"It's important to the entire Astros organization, to send immediate support to our fellow Texans throughout the Hill Country during this devastating time," said Astros Owner and Chairman Jim Crane.

“There is a lot still unknown as recovery efforts are ongoing, but the Astros are committed to supporting Central Texas communities in the long term through the coming days, months and years to help rebuild and heal. We also want to acknowledge and personally thank all of the First Responders for their continued heroic efforts!”

Texas floods mapped

Here are the affected areas as death toll rises:

Texas officials long feared for riverbank summer camps. A warning system was rejected as too expensive

The Independent’s Julia Musto writes:

Texas rescue helicopter forced to make emergency landing after colliding with private drone

A helicopter used for rescue and recovery operations in flood-stricken Texas was grounded after it collided with a private drone flying in restricted airspace.

The city of Kerrville, Texas, put out an advisory on Monday asking residents to keep their drones grounded until first responders finish searching for flood victims and survivors.

Graig Graziozi has the full story:

Texas Governor Abbott to hold press conference at 4 p.m. ET

Texas Governor Abbott will hold a news conference at 4 p.m. ET.

CNN reports that before the news conference, he and Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows will survey flood damage from the air.

Latest victim numbers from Kerr County

In an update Tuesday afternoon, authorities provided updates on the number of fatalities in Kerrville city and Kerr County.

The current total for fatalities stands at 87, including 57 adults (20 pending identification) and 30 children (7 pending identification) according to Kerr County sheriff Larry Leitha.

The overall death toll from the floods has now reached at least 109, with sheriff Leitha saying it was not known exactly how many remain missing.

The Guadalupe River in Texas surged 26 feet in just 45 minutes. No one saw it coming

Arkansas National Guard sends four Blackhawk helicopters to help Texas recovery

The Arkansas National Guard has sent four Blackhawk helicopters to help with the ongoing search and recovery efforts in central Texas.

“Our hearts go out to those affected in Texas,” said Brig. Gen. Chad Bridges, Arkansas’ adjutant general. “Under Governor Sanders’ leadership and direction, we’re eager to assist our brothers and sisters in the Texas National Guard as they continue to respond and recover from the Texas flooding.”

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders mobilized the troops on Monday to assist with transportation of search and rescue personnel in the vicinity of Austin, Texas.

(Arkansas Army National Guard/ Staff Sgt. Bryce Colvert)

(Arkansas Army National Guard/ Staff Sgt. Bryce Colvert)

Camp Mystic was built on 'extremely hazardous' flood zone

Camp Mystic, which confirmed 27 girls and staff members had been killed in the floods, sits in an area deemed “extremely hazardous” by officials, according to analysis by The Houston Chronicle.

A review of property records and federal flood maps by the outlet found that Mystic and several other nearby camps sit amid a “patchwork of special hazard flood areas.”

Several of the camps even contain parts that sit in a “designated floodway” – the channel where water flows most strongly during a flood.

“In Texas, we have been very irresponsible about the way we treat floodways and floodplains,” said Jim Blackburn, a Rice University professor who specializes in environmental law and flooding issues, told The Chronicle.

“We have always treated them as a kind of environmental red tape rather than a true danger area, and I think that has dis-served us across the board.”

Last 'live rescue' made on Friday, authorities say

Speaking at a Tuesday press conference, Jonathan Lamb, Community Services Officer for the Kerrville Police Department said the last “live rescue” in the county was made on Friday.

Sheriff Larry Leitha said it was uncertain how many people remained missing, as rescue operations continue.

“It’s hard to know that number. I know the numbers that we have found, and that’s all I know,” he said.

Five campers and one counselor still missing from Camp Mystic

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said that five campers and one counselor from Camp Mystic are still missing.

The all-girls Christian summer camp on the bank of the Guadalupe River, confirmed 27 girls and staff members had been killed.

Previously 11 were still missing.

Odessa Police Officer named as one of the flood victims

Bailey Martin, an officer with the Odessa Police Department, has been identified as one of the victims of the Texas floods.

In a statement, the department said that positive identification and notification of next of kin had taken place on Monday.

“We kindly ask that you respect the family's privacy during this difficult time, as they have not only lost Bailey but also several other family members,” a statement read.

“Our prayers go out to them and to everyone affected by this devastating natural disaster.”

OPD said that all its officers were wearing mourning bands over their badges and that flags at the station had been lowered to half mast. It also encouraged the citizens of Odessa to replace their porch lights with blue bulbs for the rest of the week in remembrance of Martin.

(Odessa Police Department)

Noem says people of Texas are 'grateful' to Trump

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Texans are “grateful” for Donald Trump’s support following her visit to the flood-devastated areas.

Speaking at a cabinet meeting Tuesday, she told the president her department was “cutting through the paperwork of old FEMA” in order to give a “much better response to help these families.”

Noem added that authorities were still looking for “a lot of little girls” and recounted how she had met bereaved parents who were “picking up their daughters stuffed animals, or their daughters shoes from cabins.”

“This is time for all of us in this country to remember that we were created to serve each other,” she said. “Every tragedy is unique... I’m proud of the people that immediately stepped up.”

Krisit Noem recalls harrowing details of Texas visit

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recounted harrowing details of her recent visit to central Texas, where she visited the communities devastated by the flash flooding.

“I had walked through the cabin where all the little girls died, and I had kinda fallen apart in there but I walked out of the cabin. There was a gentleman, he said ‘that man over there needs a hug.’

“I walked over here and I hugged him and I said ‘do you work here?’ and he said ‘no my little girl was in that cabin. I just found her best friend about a half an hour ago, she had passed awa y’ – and he just fell apart, and we hugged and talked.”

Noem added that she had also met a camp counselor, who told her she had been holding onto two girls in the heavy flood waters, but had lost them in the violent waters.

“She said ‘I will live with that for the rest of my life,’” Noem said, adding: “The strength of people is incredible.”

Trump says response in Texas was 'so unified'

Speaking at a cabinet meeting Wednesday, Donald Trump said the response to the flooding from federal and state authorities was “so unified.”

“We had a lot of helicopters, it was actually dangerous... but they were real pros and they were responsible for pulling out a lot of people. We got them there fast,” he said.

The president added: “Texas has some good ones too. The response has been incredible and the fact that we got on so well... I don’t even think that’s a political thing, it was so unified.

“I think a lot of lives have been saved... As bad as it was you could have lost double or triple.”

Trump confirms Texas visit with Melania on Friday

Donald Trump has confirmed that he will be visiting Texas on Friday with First Lady Melania Trump, to survey the damage caused by the devastating flooding.

“I’ll be going down on Friday with the First Lady, we’ll be taking a trip,” he said at a cabinet meeting Wednesday.

“We don’t want to get in anyone’s way, because that’s what happens – a president goes and everyone is focused – I don’t want anyone to focus on us.”

The president added: “What a tragic situation.”

How Texas flash floods burst into a deadly tide in mere hours

With at least 105 dead and two dozen still missing, Friday’s catastrophic flash flooding in Central Texas ranks among the worst natural disasters in the state’s history.

The brunt of the disaster centered in Kerr County, where the torrential rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to burst its banks, taking 84 victims, including 28 children.

Here’s what you need to know:

Fox News Commentator says Democrats have convinced people that 'if you vote for them they will make the weather good'

Fox News Commentator Charles Hurt claimed that the Democrats have convinced people that “if you vote for them they will make the weather good.”

Watch below:

Kerr County Sheriff dodges questions on flood response timeline

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha was unable to answer a question about whether the local emergency manager was awake at the time that the first flooding alert came out.

Asked about specific timings at a press conference Tuesday, Leitha replied: “We're in the process of trying to put a timeline. That is not my priority at this time.”

“Was the emergency manager awake?” a reported asked.

“I can't tell you at this time,” Leitha replied.

Some bodies have been released to families

Some bodies have been released to their families though some remain in autopsy, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said at a new conference Wednesday.

Sheriff Leitha said it was uncertain how many remain missing.

Authorities will hold another press conference at 5 p.m. unless there was a critical update.

Kerr County official urges public not to visit the area

Community Services Officer Jonathan Lamb, urged people to stay away from the area.

“We understand there’s natural curiosity, people want to come and see the flood damage,” he said at a news conference Wednesday.

“Now is not the time for sightseeing, this operation is ongoing.”

Kerr County officials provide update on search efforts

Kerr County officials are now providing update on search and rescue efforts.

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha told reporters that his priorities were “locating the people out there, identifying and notifying their next of kin.”

Sheriff Leitha appeared to initially dodge questions about who the emergency manager was and whether they were awake at the time.

Some first responders forced to drop from helicopter due to conditions

Burnet County, Texas Chief Deputy Alan Trevino told CNN News Central that some first responders had been forced to drop from helicopters into remote areas due to ongoing conditions.

"It's couple of few things. One is we have continued to get rain. And so when we have rain in the area we're concerned about... our volunteers and our first responders caught out in potentially another flashflood,” he said, in an interview with the broacaster Wednesday.

“So we have to call them back. And getting to some of these locations, we are having to drop teams by helicopter into these remote areas. And so it's long. And then with the teams that are searching, it's hot, it's humid, and so we're having to rotate significantly just because of the exhaustion for both human and canine on these searches.

He added: “Additionally, because of how damp it is, we cannot, in some areas get – we won't be able to get horses in at this point. And additionally, with the cadaver dogs on some of these – we're putting cadaver dogs in boats.

“And so it's tough work but we're working, we're – as the days continue, the terrain dries out and we will continue to bring the resources that we need to be the most effective.”

Former NOAA administrator 'convinced' NWS staff cuts hindered comms with emergency management

Richard Spinrad, former administrator for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has said he is "convinced" that cuts to staffing at the National Weather Service, hindered communication with emergency managers ahead of the devastating storms.

"I've talked with any number of my friends in the weather service and colleagues in the commercial weather community and to a person, one of the first questions they asked was, ‘Where was the WCM – the warning coordination meteorologist?’” Spinrad told CNN News Central Tuesday.

“I am convinced that the staff cuts that we saw were a contributing factor to the inability of the emergency managers to respond.

“The staffing was just fine, and the White House has concurred with this, to get the forecast out and to get the watches and warnings issued, but when you send a message there's no guarantee it's being received.

“So someone needs to follow up, and that's the warning coordination meteorologist – a position that was vacant."

In pictures: Vehicular carnage strewn along the Guadalupe River

(Getty Images)

(Getty Images)

(Getty Images)

(Getty Images)

Mexican firefighters join response efforts in Texas

A group of firefighters from Mexico has joined search efforts Texas, where almost two dozen people remain missing.

The group traveled from the state of Coahuila, which borders Del Río, Texas, on Sunday.

Watch: Timelapse shows deadly Texas floodwater rising in minutes

Power restored after floods down power lines in Kerr County

Power has been restored to the final remaining homes and businesses experiencing outages in the West Kerr area.

Rapid flood waters downed trees and knocked out powerlines, plunging hundreds in the area into darkness.

The three largest outages – Cade Loop Crossing, Rio Vista Crossing, and Kelly Creek Crossing – have now been restored, Kerrville Public Utility Board said.

The utility company said that 140 customers remained without power Monday evening.

By Tuesday morning, Poweroutages.us reported that there were no blackouts in Kerr County.

Cruz faces fury for trip to Greece as floods ravaged Texas

Senator Ted Cruz is facing backlash for being on vacation in Greece with his family when floods ravaged central Texas.

A tourist in Athens told the Houston Chronicle that Cruz was spotted near the Parthenon in Athens with his wife at 6 p.m. local time on Saturday. By that point, dozens were feared dead and Abbott had issued a disaster declaration due to severe flooding.

“I feel like he should have considered skipping the visit to the Parthenon on Saturday…,” Shannon Watts, an activist who campaigned with President Joe Biden in 2020, tweeted.

The Republican lawmaker came back “as fast a humanly possible” from his preplanned trip on Sunday, his office said.

The Daily Beast challenged Cruz’s claims of rushing back to Texas, noting that flight data showed multiple flights from Athens to San Antonio available on both Friday and Saturday. However, it remains unclear how many seats were available on those flights.

Cruz previously faced controversy in February 2021 when he took a trip to Cancún and abandoned his state in the middle of a winter storm that killed 246 Texans and left millions without power and running water. The scandal left the senator with the nickname “Cancún Cruz.”

In pictures: Camp Mystic remains at center of tragedy

Camper's belongings sit outside one of Camp Mystic's cabins near the Guadalupe River (AP)

Caution tape covers the entrance of Camp Mystic (Getty Images)

Flood warnings continue in Coryell County

Flood warnings are still in effect for residents along two rivers in Coryell County.

The National Water Prediction Service issued the warnings Monday evening for the Leon River in Gatesville and Cowhouse Creek near Pidcoke.

Both rivers are expected to experience minor flooding. The warnings are due to be assessed at 2.45 p.m. local time

Texas pediatrician fired after anti-MAGA rant about flood victims

A veteran Houston pediatrician has been fired after she attacked Donald Trump supporters impacted by the floods.

“May all visitors, children, non-MAGA voters and pets be safe and dry,” wrote Dr. Christina Propst, formerly of Blue Fish Pediatrics.

“Kerr County MAGA voted to gut FEMA. They deny climate change. May they get what they voted for. Bless their hearts.”

Blue Fish Pediatrics announced that they had let Propst go.

“We were made aware of a social media comment from one of our physicians,” read the statement, without explicitly mentioning Propst by name. “The individual is no longer employed by Blue Fish Pediatrics.”

Watch: Moment rescuers pull resident from raging Texas floodwaters

Austin firefighters turn on chief over Kerr County flood response

The Austin Firefighters Association has called for a vote of no confidence on Austin Fire Chief Joel Baker after he allegedly “DENIED” the deployment of firefighters to flood-ravaged Kerry County.

AFA president said at a news conference Monday that Baker issued a standing order on June 6 that prevented Austin firefighters from deploying to assist search and rescue efforts.

“It is absolutely outrageous that the Austin Fire Chief, Joel G. Baker, would not allow highly trained firefighters from Austin to respond to Kerrville,” the group wrote in a statement Monday.

“Because of this egregious dereliction of duty, LIVES WERE VERY LIKELY LOST BECAUSE OF CHIEF BAKER’S DECISION!”

The Independent has contacted Baker for more information.

Houston Astros pledge $1 million to relief efforts

The Houston Astros have pledged to give $1 million to support relief efforts for those devastated by the floods that swept through Central Texas last week.

The MLB team said in a statement Monday that the Astros Foundation will also mobilize supporters and launch a fan-based initiative.

“It’s important to the entire Astros organization, to send immediate support to our fellow Texans throughout the Hill Country during this devastating time,” Jim Crane, owner and chairman of the team, said.

Crane said the Astros are committed to providing support for communities “through the coming days, months and years to help rebuild and heal.”

Mapped: Here are the affected areas as death toll rises

The search for two dozen missing people entered its fifth day on Tuesday after catastrophic flash floods swept through Central Texas last week.

At least 104 people have been killed following torrential downpours that began Thursday after the Guadalupe River burst from its banks on Friday, rising by 20 feet in roughly 95 minutes.

Maps reveal the devastation seen in Kerr County, where authorities revealed 28 children were among the 84 victims in the flood-ravaged region.

The Independent has mapped out the Texas communities hit hardest by the floods.

'This will be a rough week,' Kerrville mayor warns

As the death toll mounts, Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr said at a Monday news conference that locals should prepare for a “rough week.”

“I need to tell my community, and those who are waiting: this will be a rough week,” he said.

“Primary search continues, and we remain hopeful [for] every foot, every mile, every bend of the river.”

Newsom to send Californian search and rescue teams to Texas

As the Madre Fire continues to tear through California, Governor Gavin Newsom announced he would deploy the state’s Urban Search and Rescue Team to Texas to assist with flood response efforts.

“California stands with all those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods in the devastating aftermath of these summer floods in Texas,” he said in a statement.

“California is sending these specialized resources to support critical emergency response and recovery efforts.”

What you can do to help the Texas flood victims and their families

Residents of Kerr County, Texas, and other areas around the Guadalupe River, are picking up the pieces following deadly flooding that has killed at least 104 people since last week.

Search and rescue operations were still underway on Tuesday as authorities scoured the area for dozens of others who remain missing amid the resulting debris and floodwaters.

At a press conference, city and county managers said donations have been pouring in from around the world to the Community Foundation. Anyone who wants to volunteer should contact the Kerrville Salvation Army and register.

So, how can you aid flood victims? Julia Musto outlines some ways to help:

Governor says 'Texas will not stop until missing found' as 1,750 personnel deployed

More than 1,750 personnel from 20 state agencies have been deployed to respond to flood threats in Central Texas, Governor Gregg Abbott's office says.

“Texas is working tirelessly to assist local officials with recovery and rescue operations,” Abbott wrote on X Monday.

“Texas will not stop until every missing person is found.”

With a dozen still missing, hopes of finding survivors dwindle

At least two dozen people were still missing Monday evening as the death toll continued to mount.

At least 104 people have been killed by surging floodwaters that devestated central Texas last week.

Those who survived were typically found rapidly. Some were swept miles away from where they went missing and sustained critical injuries.

With each passing hour, the chances of finding the missing alive diminish.

“You’ve got to get to those folks quick,” Chris Boyer, the executive director of the National Association for Search and Rescue, told The New York Times.

“With floods, you don’t typically find a lot of people alive.”

Due to the severity of flooding, Boyer said it is increasingly unlikely that the missing will be found alive. Some bodies may not be recovered for months, he said, if at all.

In pictures: Mourners break down at vigil for victims

A woman wipes away tears during a vigil for the victims at Travis Park, in San Antonio, Texas, on July 7 (AFP via Getty Images)

A woman cries as she is embraced by another person during a vigil for the victims of the floods over Fourth of July weekend, at Travis Park (AFP via Getty Images)

Warmer, drier conditions to provide some respite

After thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and flash floods on Monday, drier, warmer conditions in Central Texas are expected to provide some relief.

The National Weather Service says in its forecast that temperatures are expected to soar and rainfall to decrease (National Weather Service)

Michael Dell pledges $1 million to flood relief efforts

Texas billionaire Michael Dell has pledged $1 million to support relief efforts in the wake of last week’s devastating flash floods across Central Texas.

“Susan and I are heartbroken by the devastating floods across Central Texas. We're committing $1 million through our family foundation to relief efforts,” he tweeted late Monday.

“Our hearts go out to our team members, families, friends, and everyone affected – especially those mourning loved ones and those still awaiting news.”

Texas county deflects mounting questions over actions before deadly flood

As deaths from catastrophic Texas flooding surpassed 100 on Monday, local officials in one of the hardest-hit counties have still revealed little about what, if any, actions they took to safeguard residents, tourists and visitors in an area known as "flash flood alley".

At a series of briefings since the flooding on 4 July, Kerr County officials have deflected a series of pointed questions about preparations and warnings as forecasters warned of life-threatening conditions.

The county in the scenic Texas Hill Country is home to several summer camps, including Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp that announced on Monday it lost at least 27 campers and counsellors.

"Today's not the day and now's not the time to discuss the warnings, who got them, who didn't got them. Right now, I'm only worried about public safety," Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said on Monday during an emergency session of the county commissioners court.

Dalton Rice, the city manager of Kerrville, said on Monday that authorities were reluctant to "cry wolf" and order evacuations, adding that rainfall "significantly" exceeded the projected amounts.

He said officials had little time to react in the middle of the night, adding that qualified first responders were being "swept away" driving through the initial rainfall.

"This rose very quickly in a very short amount of time," Mr Rice said.

Pictures: People take part in a vigil in memory of Texas flooding victims

A woman lights candles during a vigil in memory of Texas flooding victims, at Travis Park in San Antonio (Reuters)

Vigil in memory of Texas flooding victims, in San Antonio (Reuters)

A teenager holding a candle as she takes part in a vigil in memory of Texas flooding victims, at Travis Park in San Antonio, Texas, 7 July 2025 (Reuters)

Hopes fade for missing Texas flood victims as death toll hovers around 100

Search teams plodded through muddy riverbanks and flew aircraft over flood-ravaged central Texas on Monday as hopes dimmed of finding survivors among dozens still missing from a disaster that has claimed at least 96 lives, many of them children.

Three days after a torrential predawn downpour transformed the Guadalupe River into a raging, killer torrent, a Christian girls' summer camp devastated by the flash flood confirmed that 27 campers and counselors were among those who had perished.

Authorities search along the Guadalupe River following catastrophic flooding in Kerrville, Texas, on Monday, 7 July 2025 (AP)

Ten girls and a camp counselor were still unaccounted for, officials said on Monday, as search-and-rescue personnel faced the potential of more heavy rains and thunderstorms while clawing through tons of muck-laden debris.

The bulk of the death toll from Friday's calamity was concentrated in and around the riverfront town of Kerrville and the grounds of Camp Mystic, situated in a swath of Texas Hill Country known as "flash flood alley”.

On Monday, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick vowed that the state would "step up" to pay for installing a flash-flood warning system in Kerrville by next summer if local governments "can't afford it."

Video: Entire cabin full of people swept downriver in Texas flooding

Volunteers flock to help search efforts after Texas floods even as officials warn them away

Justin Rubio awoke in the wee hours to an alert on his phone, thunder, sirens and the thud of helicopter blades – the beginning of one of the largest rescue operations in Texas history. Rubio was determined to be a part of it.

Even as authorities in Kerr County have repeatedly discouraged civilian volunteers, Rubio and dozens of others went out Monday to search for people still missing after flash flooding tore through the Texas Hill Country over the July Fourth weekend.

The emotions wrapped up in the calamity that killed at least 100 people – and the urge to help find those still missing – at times butted up against officials' need for structure and safety as they search over 100km along the Guadalupe River.

The river grew by the size of a two-story building in less than an hour on Friday. One survivor described a " pitch-black wall of death".

The flooding decimated shorelines, ripped trees from the ground, tossed and crushed a Ram truck, disappeared buildings and swept through a century-old summer camp packed with kids.

Vigil in memory of Texas flooding victims, in San Antonio (Reuters)

Rubio, who picked through torn tree limbs Monday, said he couldn't help but pitch in."It's sad. It eats at your soul, it eats at your heart," he said.

"I can't just sit at home thinking about what's going on out here."The outpouring, volunteers say, is a Texas strain of solidarity, and officials have applauded the donations and volunteers in other areas.

Forecasters defend Texas meteorologists amid criticisms alerts came too late

Former National Weather Service officials and meteorologists are defending Texas forecasters in the wake of sudden flooding that resulted in the deaths of at least 104 people, including 27 girls and counsellors at a Christian girls’ camp in Kerrville.

Response to the extreme event has been met with major scrutiny after some state and local officials accused the NWS of not providing accurate forecasts. There have also been questions over whether the agency was sufficiently staffed after the Trump administration slashed critical positions around the U.S.

But experts say that warnings issued were about as timely and accurate as could be expected with the data they had.

“The forecasting was good. The warnings were good. It’s always about getting people to receive the message,” Chris Vagasky, a meteorologist based in Wisconsin, told NBC News. “It appears that is one of the biggest contributors — that last mile.”

More details in our full story.

ICYMI: How to help victims of Texas floods

Residents of Kerr County, Texas, and other areas around the Guadalupe River, are picking up the pieces following deadly flooding that has killed at least 95 people since last week.

Search and rescue operations were still underway on Monday as authorities scoured the area for dozens of others who remain missing amid the resulting debris and floodwaters.

Authorities would not give an official tally of those still unaccounted for, saying operations were ongoing and that they have received a number of fake reports.

Residents of Kerr County, Texas, and other areas around the Guadalupe River, are picking up the pieces following deadly flooding that has killed at least 95 people since last week.

Search and rescue operations were still underway on Monday as authorities scoured the area for dozens of others who remain missing amid the resulting debris and floodwaters.

So, how can you aid flood victims? Here are some ways to help...

Julia Musto reports.

Over 100 killed in flash floods in Texas

Flash floods in Texas killed more than 100 people over the Fourth of July holiday weekend and left others still missing, including girls attending a summer camp.

The devastation along the Guadalupe River, outside of San Antonio, has drawn a massive search effort as officials face questions over their preparedness and the speed of their initial actions.

Search and rescue workers use a sonar device while paddling down the Guadalupe River in a boat looking for survivors or the remains of victims swept up in the flash flooding on 7 July 2025 in Hunt, Texas (Getty Images)

In Kerr County, home to youth camps in the Texas Hill Country, searchers have found the bodies of 84 people, including 28 children, Sheriff Larry Leitha said Monday afternoon. Fatalities in nearby counties brought the total number of deaths as of Monday afternoon to at least 104.

Ten girls and a counselor were still unaccounted for at Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp along the river.

The floods grew to their worst at the midpoint of a long holiday weekend when many people were asleep.

The Texas Hill Country in the central part of the state is naturally prone to flash flooding due to the dry dirt-packed areas where the soil lets rain skid along the surface of the landscape instead of soaking it up. Friday's flash floods started with a particularly bad storm that dropped most of its 12 inches (30cm) of rain in the dark early morning hours.

Heavy rainfall caused flooding along the Guadalupe River in central Texas with multiple fatalities reported (Getty Images)

After a flood watch notice midday Thursday, the National Weather Service office issued an urgent warning around 4am that raised the potential of catastrophic damage and a severe threat to human life.

By at least 5.20am, some in the Kerrville City area say water levels were getting alarmingly high. The massive rain flowing down hills sent rushing water into the Guadalupe River, causing it to rise 26ft in just 45 minutes.

Death toll is expected to rise and the number of missing is uncertain.

Texas state lawmaker regrets voting against disaster response bill after floods

Amid questions about whether emergency systems could’ve done more to warn residents of central Texas about last week’s flood, one state lawmaker says he regrets voting against an emergency preparedness bill earlier this year.

The legislation, House Bill 13, would have established a statewide plan to improve Texas’s disaster alert systems, as well as provided grants to buy new communications equipment and installing infrastructure like radio towers.

“I can tell you in hindsight, watching what it takes to deal with a disaster like this, my vote would probably be different now,” Representative Wes Virdell told Texas Tribune.

Drone collision grounds rescue helicopter

City officials in Kerrville are warning residents not to use their drones until the search and rescue operations in the area are complete, after a collision with a drone in restricted airspace temporarily grounded an emergency helicopter flight.

“The helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing, and a critical piece of response equipment is now out of service until further notice. This was entirely preventable,” the city said in a statement on Facebook.

“When you fly a drone in restricted areas, you’re not just breaking the law -- you’re putting first responders, emergency crews, and the public at serious risk,” the statement continued.

WATCH: San Antonio holds candlelight vigil for victims of deadly Texas floods

'She did all she could to save the lives of the girls in her cabin'

A group of 11 are still missing from Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp hit hard by the central Texas floods last week.

That includes Katherine Ferruzzo, 19, a counselor at the camp and an incoming student at the University of Texas.

“Katherine has a fierce and loving spirit, and we have no doubt she did all she could to save the lives of the girls in her cabin,” her family told The New York Times.

Mayor in hard-hit city of Kerrville never got direct warning about floods

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Scrutiny is mounting over whether officials did enough to alert the public before deadly floods hit central Texas last week.

Joe Herring, Jr., the mayor of hard-hit Kerrville, told CNN he never got a flood notification or an individual warning from government forecasters before the disaster struck.

The first time he learned the extent of the threat was early Friday morning, when the city’s emergency manager called him to say a park had been flooded, Herring told CNN.

"It all happened upriver at the worst possible place. And I think everyone in Kerrville, everyone in Kerr County, wishes to God we had some way to warn them. To warn those people. I've lost two friends. We loved them and they're gone," he said. "You know they're gone. Everyone here, if we could've warned them, we would have done so. And we didn't even have a warning. We did not know."

Photos: Texas state troopers assist in recovery effort

The Texas Department of Public Safety was one of numerous agencies who sent personnel to central Texas to assist with recovery efforts after devastating floods late last week killed over 100 people.

Netanyahu offers prayers for Texas ahead of Trump meeting in Washington

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is among the world leaders who have offered prayers and condolences after the devastating floods in central Texas.

“My wife Sara and I and all of Israel are praying for the Great State of Texas,” the US ally wrote on X. “Israel knows disaster—we’ve lived through war, fire, and flood. Dear friends, we stand with you!”

Netanyahu is slated to dine with President Trump in Washington on Monday.

Bel Trew had this preview of what’s at stake in the meeting.

Rescue teams from Florida, Pennsylvania, Mexico to assist in Texas flood recovery

Firefighters from Ciudad Acuña, Mexico, load a body into a raft as they prepare for a water recovery along the Guadalupe River days after a flash flood swept through the area, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Ingram, Texas (AP)

Rescue teams from far and wide are assisting Texas in the aftermath of deadly flooding late last week.

Crews from Florida, Pennsylvania, and even Mexico have been sent to join in the response effort.

Series of obstacles may have stopped Texas weather warnings from reaching population

As first responders work to rescue the living and recover the dead from last week’s flooding in central Texas, officials and experts are scrutinizing whether more could’ve been done to warn the public about the Friday floods, potentially averting some of the more than 100 deaths that followed.

A review from NBC Dallas-Fort Worth found that National Weather Service alerts went out about the coming floods in Kerr County on Thursday, about 12 hours before the floods actually hit.

“The National Weather Service office did everything they should do from everything I can tell,” Jeff Masters, a former hurricane scientist with the NOAA Hurricane Hunters, told USA Today.

Nonetheless, the county lacks weather sirens, and making matters worse, a lack of cell phone coverage and weather radios in the area may have further prevented such warnings from reaching residents.

What’s more, numerous summer camps are in the area, some of which don’t allow children to carry cell phones.

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said on Monday that flood-warning sirens could’ve saved lives in communities near the swollen Guadalupe River, and promised the state will “step up” and help pay for such infrastructure to be in place by next summer.

PHOTOS: Rescues and repairs continue after Texas floods

(EPA)

(EPA)

(AP)

More than 100 dead from Texas floods, including at least 28 children

The estimated death toll from last week’s flooding in central Texas was revised upwards again on Monday evening.

The county is home to at least 84 of the total fatalities, including 28 children who died in the floods.

WATCH: White House declares Texas floods to be major disaster

The Trump administration has declared the Texas floods a major disaster, freeing up additional resources for local first responders.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the declaration during a press briefing on Monday.

Watch her comments below: