Texas parents are desperately seeking information about their daughters after more than 20 campers from an all-girls summer camp went missing on Friday. The incident follows severe flooding that swept through the state’s south-central region. According to Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha, at least 13 people have died, and dozens remain unaccounted for after torrential rains inundated Texas Hill Country.
The floods have particularly affected the region known for its historic summer camps, which annually attract thousands of children from across Texas. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick reported that approximately 23 girls attending Camp Mystic, a Christian camp located along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas, were missing as of Friday afternoon. Rescue teams have been deployed, utilizing helicopters and boats to search the fast-moving floodwaters.
Community in Distress
In a heartfelt plea, Lt. Gov. Patrick urged, “I’m asking the people of Texas, do some serious praying this afternoon — on-your-knees kind of praying — that we find these young girls.” The emotional appeal underscores the gravity of the situation as families anxiously await news of their loved ones.
Many families have taken to local Facebook groups, sharing their distress after receiving calls from safety officials that their daughters were not found among the debris of washed-away camp cabins and downed trees. Camp Mystic has communicated to parents via email, assuring them that if they have not been contacted directly, their child is accounted for.
Geographical Challenges
The camp is situated in an area known as “flash flood alley,” a term that highlights the region’s susceptibility to sudden and severe flooding. Austin Dickson, CEO of the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, explained the challenges posed by the local geography. “When it rains, water doesn’t soak into the soil,” Dickson noted. “It rushes down the hill.”
Currently, Camp Mystic is without power, Wi-Fi, and running water, and the main highway leading to the camp has been washed away, complicating rescue efforts. Despite these challenges, two other nearby camps, Camp Waldemar and Camp La Junta, have reported through Instagram that all their campers and staff are safe.
Historical Context and Response
The Texas Hill Country has a long history of flooding, with its unique topography and soil composition contributing to frequent flash floods. These events have prompted local authorities and community organizations to develop robust emergency response plans. However, the intensity and suddenness of this week’s rains have overwhelmed existing measures.
In response to the disaster, the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country is collecting donations to support nonprofits involved in the relief efforts. The foundation aims to provide immediate assistance to those affected and to bolster long-term recovery initiatives.
Looking Ahead
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on locating the missing campers and providing support to affected families. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness in flood-prone areas.
The coming days will be critical as search teams work tirelessly to navigate the challenging conditions. The Texas community, united in hope and prayer, awaits positive news and the safe return of the missing girls.
