A catastrophic flash flood tore through the heart of Texas Hill Country on Friday, July 4, after torrential rains caused the Guadalupe River to surge more than 30 feet in just 45 minutes, sweeping away cabins, campers, and vehicles.

At least 51 people have been confirmed dead, including 15 children, and the search continues for 27 missing girls who were staying at Camp Mystic, a private Christian girls' retreat in Kerr County. The water struck in the early morning, submerging cabins and trapping hundreds before rescue teams could mobilize.

Among the victims are Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, second graders from Highland Park, near Dallas. Families have confirmed the identities of several deceased girls, while another victim remains unnamed at the family's request.

Governor Greg Abbott toured the devastated camp, describing the scene as "horrendously ravaged." He noted that floodwaters rose to the roofs of the cabins and pledged continued rescue efforts: "We won't stop until we find every girl who was in those cabins."

The disaster prompted President Donald Trump to pledge "all available federal resources" to Texas, according to White House Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair. Trump expressed his condolences on Truth Social, calling on Americans to pray for the families and praising first responders for their heroic efforts.

More than 850 people have been rescued so far, with helicopters, drones, and K9 units sweeping debris-laden terrain for survivors. The area remains dangerous as emergency crews work around the clock.

This flood highlights a recurring threat in the region known as "Flash Flood Alley." Experts say the combination of poor soil absorption and steep terrain makes Central Texas particularly vulnerable to rapid water surges. In this case, rainfall reached up to 15 inches (38 cm) in less than 24 hours.

Survivors described scenes of chaos and fear. "The camp was completely destroyed," said 13-year-old Elinor Lester, who was airlifted to safety. "A helicopter landed and started taking people away. It was really scary."

Critics are now questioning whether the flood warning system responded adequately and whether the camp's location along the riverbank had sufficient emergency infrastructure.

Key Facts:

• Date: July 4, 2025

• Location: Hunt, Kerr County, Texas

• Confirmed deaths: 51

• Missing persons: 27 girls from Camp Mystic

• Rescued: 850+ individuals

• Rainfall: Up to 15 inches in 24 hours

• River surge: Over 30 feet in 45 minutes

This disaster underscores the urgent need to reassess emergency preparedness in rural and flood-prone areas of the U.S. As families mourn, attention turns to systemic reforms-stronger alert systems, better infrastructure, and risk evaluations for youth facilities near rivers. Texas faces not only grief but critical questions about how to prevent future tragedies.