Multiple people have died in Texas after heavy rains triggered flash floods, with rescue teams using boats to save those trapped in fast-moving waters on Friday. The flooding impacted riverfront areas near wildlife zones and campgrounds.
Central Kerr county was hit especially hard, with up to 10 inches (25 cm) of rain falling within a few hours overnight. The sudden downpour caused the Guadalupe river to overflow, leading to dangerous flooding.
Judge Rob Kelly, the top elected official in the county, confirmed that there had been fatalities and said dozens of water rescues had taken place. However, he declined to give an exact number, saying authorities are still working to identify the victims.
“Most of them, we don’t know who they are,” Kelly said at a press briefing. “One of them was completely naked, he didn’t have any ID on him at all. We’re trying to get the identity of these folks, but we don’t have it yet.”
Authorities are continuing rescue and recovery efforts as the region remains on alert for further rain.
Officials carried out several rescue operations as emergency services continued their efforts, with some people still missing, according to Kelly.
On Thursday afternoon, a flood watch was issued, warning of possible heavy rainfall of up to 7 inches (17 cm). By night, this alert was upgraded to a flood warning, affecting at least 30,000 people.
When asked about the sudden flash floods overnight, Kelly admitted there was no warning system in place. “We didn’t know this flood was coming,” he said, even as local reporters pointed out earlier alerts and questioned the lack of preparation.
“No one expected a flood of this scale,” Kelly added. “We experience floods often, but this is the most dangerous river valley in the United States.”
Texas governor Greg Abbott said the state is sending help to flood-affected areas in Hill Country, including Kerrville, Ingram and Hunt.
He urged people to follow instructions from authorities and stay updated with local weather forecasts to avoid driving through flooded roads.
“I urge Texans to heed guidance from state and local officials and monitor local forecasts to avoid driving into flooded areas,” Abbott said in a statement.
The Texas Hill Country, known for its scenic views, rocky terrain, vineyards, and vacation rentals, lies west of the state capital and is a popular summer destination. However, some parts of the region are highly prone to flash floods.
Following the floods, dozens of people took to Facebook, seeking information about their children, nieces, nephews, or relatives who were attending camps or camping in the area over the holiday weekend.
Central Kerr county was hit especially hard, with up to 10 inches (25 cm) of rain falling within a few hours overnight. The sudden downpour caused the Guadalupe river to overflow, leading to dangerous flooding.
Judge Rob Kelly, the top elected official in the county, confirmed that there had been fatalities and said dozens of water rescues had taken place. However, he declined to give an exact number, saying authorities are still working to identify the victims.
“Most of them, we don’t know who they are,” Kelly said at a press briefing. “One of them was completely naked, he didn’t have any ID on him at all. We’re trying to get the identity of these folks, but we don’t have it yet.”
Authorities are continuing rescue and recovery efforts as the region remains on alert for further rain.
Officials carried out several rescue operations as emergency services continued their efforts, with some people still missing, according to Kelly.
On Thursday afternoon, a flood watch was issued, warning of possible heavy rainfall of up to 7 inches (17 cm). By night, this alert was upgraded to a flood warning, affecting at least 30,000 people.
When asked about the sudden flash floods overnight, Kelly admitted there was no warning system in place. “We didn’t know this flood was coming,” he said, even as local reporters pointed out earlier alerts and questioned the lack of preparation.
“No one expected a flood of this scale,” Kelly added. “We experience floods often, but this is the most dangerous river valley in the United States.”
Texas governor Greg Abbott said the state is sending help to flood-affected areas in Hill Country, including Kerrville, Ingram and Hunt.
He urged people to follow instructions from authorities and stay updated with local weather forecasts to avoid driving through flooded roads.
“I urge Texans to heed guidance from state and local officials and monitor local forecasts to avoid driving into flooded areas,” Abbott said in a statement.
The Texas Hill Country, known for its scenic views, rocky terrain, vineyards, and vacation rentals, lies west of the state capital and is a popular summer destination. However, some parts of the region are highly prone to flash floods.
Following the floods, dozens of people took to Facebook, seeking information about their children, nieces, nephews, or relatives who were attending camps or camping in the area over the holiday weekend.
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