Kerrville, December 6, 2025
Kerrville, Texas experienced catastrophic flash floods on July 4, resulting in over 400 emergency calls and at least 136 fatalities statewide, with a significant impact on Camp Mystic. The released 911 recordings highlight the distress faced by residents and the overwhelmed emergency services responding to the crisis. Mayor Joe Herring has called for better flood warning systems to prevent future tragedies in the area.
Kerrville Flooding Tragedy: 911 Calls Released from July 4
Desperate Pleas Amidst Catastrophic Flooding
Kerrville, Texas, faced devastating flash floods on July 4, 2025, resulting in more than 400 emergency calls and at least 136 fatalities statewide, with 117 of those occurring in Kerr County alone. These harrowing 911 recordings released by the Kerrville Police Department provide a solemn insight into the chaos and deep distress faced by residents and campers trapped by rising waters.
Camp Mystic Among the Hardest Hit
One of the hardest-hit locations was Camp Mystic, a century-old summer camp for girls. Tragically, 25 campers and two counselors lost their lives as floodwaters rushed into the camp, submerging cabins and common areas. The recordings include frantic calls from staff desperate for immediate assistance as the situation escalated.
Overwhelmed Emergency Services
The telecommunications center of the Kerrville Police Department was overwhelmed during the crisis, with only two personnel on duty. Over a six-hour period, starting at 2:52 a.m., the center received 435 emergency calls. Between 4 and 5 a.m., dispatchers managed to handle 106 calls, averaging one call every minute. Remarkably, despite the intense pressure, the dispatchers maintained their composure, providing careful guidance and reassurance to callers in distress.
Statewide Impact and Response
The floods had a devastating impact across Texas, leading to at least 136 deaths statewide and causing significant disruption due to the swift rise of the Guadalupe River as a result of torrential rainfall. Emergency responders utilized boats and helicopters for rescues, navigating the immense challenge presented by the rapidly evolving disaster.
Calls for Improved Flood Warning Systems
In the wake of this disaster, Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring urged state lawmakers to establish a comprehensive flood warning system by the upcoming summer. Stressing the importance of proactive measures, he underscored the essential need to protect residents and minimize the impact of future flooding events.
Background on Kerr County’s Vulnerability
Known for its stunning landscapes and numerous summer camps, Kerr County is also prone to flash floods due to its hilly terrain and proximity to the Guadalupe River. The catastrophic events of July 4 exposed clear vulnerabilities in the region’s emergency preparedness and response strategies.
Conclusion
The release of 911 recordings from the July 4 floods in Kerrville serves as a crucial reminder of the need for strong emergency response systems and the implementation of effective flood warning measures. As the community reflects on this tragedy, the push for enhanced infrastructure and preparedness continues, aiming to safeguard residents in flood-prone areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the July 4, 2025, flooding in Kerr County, Texas?
The flooding was caused by torrential rainfall that led to the Guadalupe River rising rapidly, overwhelming its banks and inundating surrounding areas.
How many fatalities occurred in Kerr County due to the flooding?
At least 117 fatalities occurred in Kerr County as a result of the flooding.
What is Camp Mystic, and how was it affected by the flood?
Camp Mystic is a century-old summer camp for girls located in Kerr County. The camp was severely affected by the flooding, resulting in the loss of 25 campers and two counselors.
How did the Kerrville Police Department respond to the emergency calls during the flood?
The Kerrville Police Department’s telecommunications center received 435 emergency calls over a six-hour period. Despite being staffed by only two personnel, dispatchers remained calm and provided guidance to callers amidst the overwhelming volume.
What measures are being considered to prevent future flooding disasters in Kerr County?
In response to the disaster, Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring urged Texas lawmakers to establish a flood warning system by the following summer to enhance preparedness and protect residents from future floods.
Key Features of the July 4, 2025, Kerr County Flooding
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Catastrophic flash flooding in Kerr County, Texas, on July 4, 2025 |
| Fatalities | At least 136 deaths statewide, with 117 in Kerr County |
| Impact on Camp Mystic | 25 campers and two counselors lost their lives |
| Emergency Response | Kerrville Police Department received 435 calls over six hours; dispatchers handled 106 calls between 4 and 5 a.m. |
| Call for Action | Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring urged the establishment of a flood warning system by the following summer |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Robert Earl Keen Launches Holiday Concert Series
Texas Rangers Discuss Growth with MLB Commissioner
Wyatt Langford Leads Texas Rangers Amid Injury Challenges
Yesway Appoints Ray Harrison as Chief Marketing Officer
Charitable Organizations in North Texas Report Major Funding Losses
Kerrville Flooding Update: Impact and Recovery Efforts
Severe Thunderstorms Cause Widespread Damage in North Texas
Dallas-Fort Worth Area Under Heat Advisory as Hurricane Erin Intensifies
University Faces Flooding Challenges as Semester Begins
Kerrville Authorities Release Names of Victims from July 4 Flooding
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
