Texas, July 5 – Catastrophic flooding across parts of Texas has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, with more than 20 young girls still missing after being swept away from a summer camp. Torrential rains transformed once-calm rivers into raging torrents, submerging entire neighbourhoods within minutes.
Families were forced to cling to trees and rooftops overnight as floodwaters surged through towns and camps, catching many by surprise. Emergency responders have been working tirelessly, deploying helicopters, boats, and drones in a desperate search and rescue effort.
“We have 14 helicopters, 12 drones, and nine rescue teams on the ground,” said a local official. “Swimmers are pulling both adults and children from trees and rooftops.” Approximately 400–500 personnel are currently involved in rescue operations, covering a wide region hit by the disaster.
While the official death toll stands at 13, authorities caution that the number may change. “we have learned from past disasters that initial reports are often incomplete,” said a spokesperson. “Right now, we estimate between six and ten confirmed fatalities, including both adults and children.”
Many of the bodies were discovered inside vehicles swept away by the rising waters. Heartbreaking pleas continue to pour in on social media from families searching for missing loved ones.
Governor Greg Abbott has pledged full support for the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts. Local officials have also admitted that the region lacked an adequate warning system for a flood event of this magnitude — one now being described as among the worst in Texas history.
Freeman Martin, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, confirmed a wide array of state units have been deployed in the area as efforts continue around the clock.
