The aftermath of the devastating flood in Central Texas, highlighting ongoing rescue operations.
A devastating flood in Central Texas has resulted in the deaths of two young sisters, Blair, 13, and Brooke Harber, 11, from Dallas. They were swept away near the Guadalupe River while visiting their grandparents, bringing the region’s total fatalities to at least 47. Rescue operations are ongoing as many, including campers from Camp Mystic, remain unaccounted for. The flood has been described as catastrophic, with significant rainfall leading to severe disruptions across Kerrville and surrounding areas.
Kerrville, Texas – A devastating flood in Central Texas has claimed the lives of two young sisters from Dallas, identified as 13-year-old Blair Harber and 11-year-old Brooke Harber. Their deaths were confirmed by the St. Rita Catholic Community on Saturday as they were swept away near the Guadalupe River while visiting their grandparents. As of the latest reports, at least 47 individuals have perished in the region due to the catastrophic flooding, which officials have described as a “mass casualty event.”
The sisters were not attending the Camp Mystic summer camp but were staying with relatives when the floods occurred. While their parents, who were in a separate cabin, were not harmed, the girls’ grandparents remain unaccounted for, compounding the tragedy for the family. In honor of the girls, St. Rita Catholic School held a heartfelt prayer service on Saturday, aimed at supporting their grieving community.
The sensational rise of the Guadalupe River, which surged 26 feet in merely 45 minutes due to extreme rainfall from a localized storm system, has caused significant disruption throughout the Hill Country region, particularly in Kerrville. Recent measurements indicated that the river reached its second-highest recorded level, marking a disastrous event for the area.
Rescue operations remain ongoing, with over 850 rescues conducted so far, including approximately 160 rescues via air. The U.S. Coast Guard has played a pivotal role, performing more than 220 life-saving operations. However, there are still pressing concerns, as up to 25 campers from Camp Mystic are reported missing amidst the turmoil. Search and rescue teams are utilizing helicopters, drones, and ground personnel, bolstered by both state and federal resources mobilizing for recovery efforts.
The situation has drawn attention from top officials, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who are coordinating resources for the affected areas. Furthermore, President Trump has pledged full federal support to assist in the recovery efforts, ensuring that the communities hard-hit by the flooding receive necessary aid.
Many locations in Central Texas are enduring power outages and restricted access, leaving families desperate to find missing loved ones. The emotional toll of the disaster is palpable, with survivors and first responders alike facing the harrowing aftermath. As search efforts continue, families hope for closure as they await news of those still unaccounted for.
The National Weather Service had initially issued flood warnings early Friday, forecasting worsening conditions as rains began. The relentless rainfall totals reached over 7 inches within approximately 4.5 hours, overwhelming local soils and river systems. The National Weather Service has characterized the flooding as unprecedented, indicating the severity of the situation.
Reports further indicate that certain families, including those in RV parks, were swept away by the rapidly rising waters, complicating rescue operations and amplifying the urgency of the situation. Communities across Central Texas are urged to remain vigilant and avoid driving into flooded areas, as multiple regions are still grappling with ongoing flooding hazards.
As the recovery efforts unfold, the emotional resilience of survivors and the dedication of first responders will play crucial roles in healing the community devastated by this natural disaster. The outpouring of support and solidarity among residents highlights the strength of the affected community as they navigate this tragic event.
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