KERRVILLE, Texas (AP) — Rain forecasts continued to impede the search for individuals missing after devastating floods struck Texas, resulting in at least 132 fatalities. Efforts to locate victims along the Guadalupe River resumed cautiously on Monday, as officials considered draining nearby reservoirs to enhance search operations, while also revising the number of missing persons.
As of Monday, officials reported that 101 individuals remain unaccounted for, with 97 of those missing concentrated in the Kerrville area. This marked a dramatic decrease from earlier estimates, which had indicated over 160 individuals were unaccounted for in Kerr County alone. The reasons for this revision were not immediately clarified by state officials, although Texas Governor Greg Abbott noted that the count can fluctuate as some missing persons may have been erroneously reported due to miscommunication with friends or family.
Floodwaters wreaked havoc in the Texas Hill Country, famously known for its picturesque landscape and camping spots along rivers. Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly expressed concern about the extent of damage, recounting stories of trailers being swept away, potentially with families onboard. One trailer was reported found buried 27 feet below the river's surface. Sonar teams are currently conducting searches in the river and surrounding lakes, with additional resources expected to arrive soon.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Urban Search and Rescue teams were able to fully resume their operations on Monday, despite some local search efforts being delayed due to the weather. Volunteer fire department spokesperson Levi Bizzell shared that about 200 searchers have been eager to assist in the recovery but had to suspend activities on Monday due to expected rain. In light of the risks, Kerr County officials requested that all volunteers evacuate the river area and advised only authorized teams to operate in affected zones.
Scrutiny of local government actions has intensified, particularly concerning the adequacy of flood warnings issued prior to the catastrophic event on July 4. In response to mounting criticisms, community officials mentioned receiving threats regarding their decisions during the crisis, illustrating the high tensions in Kerrville, located roughly 100 miles west of Austin. In a special meeting, city officials also discussed the need for increased security following reported threats against them.
The flooding incident on July 4 was unprecedented, as waters swiftly rose 26 feet, leading to widespread devastation and the loss of homes, vehicles, and lives. Flooding was notably severe around Camp Mystic, a century-old summer camp for girls, which lost at least 27 campers and counselors. Experts highlighted that the flooding exceeded what was anticipated for a 100-year event, catching many residents off guard in a county lacking a comprehensive warning system.
Following the July Fourth floods, the region faced additional rain predictions, complicating recovery efforts further. By Monday afternoon, the Guadalupe River was reported to have risen nearly 11 feet, which posed minor flooding concerns, with expectations of additional rises. Swift water rescue teams have been strategically deployed to other vulnerable areas in anticipation of further flooding.
As recovery and search efforts continue amidst challenging weather conditions, local officials are appealing for patience and understanding from residents as they grapple with a community's tragic loss.
