A historic flash flood sweeping through Central Texas since July 4 has claimed at least 104 lives, including 28 children, with nearly two dozen still missing, many from Camp Mystic summer camp. Torrential rainfall—estimated at 20 inches over 48 hours—caused the Guadalupe River to surge up to 29 feet in under one hour, sweeping away cabins, campers and their belongings. Rescue operations have saved over 850 people, with U.S. Coast Guard swimmer Scott Ruskan hailed as a hero for pulling 165 individuals from swift currents. Camp Mystic lost 27 campers and counselors, and emotional scenes emerged as families and survivors recounted harrowing escapes, including kayaks and tree clinging to avoid death.

Critics are questioning emergency infrastructure as many residents said there were no audible alerts despite prior warning forecasts. Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster and President Trump approved federal aid and plans to visit the region. The scale of destruction – described by experts as a potential “once-in-a-century flood” – has prompted investigations into preparedness and climate resilience. Meanwhile, search teams remain wary of further rain as flooding conditions persist.