UPDATE: The number of people missing in the devastating Texas floods has dropped dramatically to just three individuals, officials confirmed today. The Kerr County Flood Disaster Joint Information Center announced this significant reduction, down from an alarming approximately 100 reported missing just days earlier.
Authorities in Kerrville, the county seat located about 60 miles northwest of San Antonio, stated that extensive efforts by local, state, and federal agencies have verified the safety of many initially reported missing. The city described this as an ongoing effort to confirm the status of those unaccounted for, emphasizing the hard work of over 1,000 responders in the aftermath of the catastrophic flooding that struck during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
The recent floods have claimed at least 135 lives, predominantly along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County, which is notoriously prone to flash flooding due to its dry soil. Recovery operations continue along the river’s watershed, with search and rescue teams actively scouring the area.
Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice expressed profound gratitude for the tireless work of the responders, stating, “Thanks to their extraordinary efforts, the number of individuals previously listed as missing has dropped from over 160 to three.”
As recovery efforts unfold, officials are also preparing for a special legislative session set to commence on July 31. Governor Greg Abbott has added flooding-related issues to the agenda, aiming to review the authorities’ response to the disaster and to discuss the implementation of improved warning systems for residents in flood-prone areas.
The flood’s aftermath has raised critical questions about local preparedness, as Kerr County lacks a warning system due to missed funding opportunities. In a recent statement, Abbott dismissed inquiries about accountability for the disaster, comparing the response efforts to sportsmanship: “Every football team makes mistakes,” he remarked.
Additionally, President Donald Trump, who visited the ravaged area on July 11, has urged state lawmakers to redraw congressional districts in the wake of the flooding. He defended local authorities against criticisms concerning their handling of early warnings and flood forecasts, stating, “Everyone did an incredible job under the circumstances.”
As officials begin joint hearings on the state’s flood response, Senator Maria Cantwell highlighted the federal government’s role in enhancing forecasting systems, emphasizing a “national responsibility” to prevent future tragedies.
The community continues to grieve the loss of life, particularly at locations like Camp Mystic, where at least 27 campers and counselors tragically died. Many of the victims were among the youngest attendees, highlighting the flood’s devastating human impact.
As recovery efforts progress and investigations continue, residents and officials remain vigilant, hoping for further updates on those still missing and a future with improved safety measures. Keep an eye on this developing story as authorities work tirelessly to address the aftermath of this unprecedented disaster.
