🌊 What happened

Between July 4–7, 2025, Central Texas, especially Kerr County and the Guadalupe River basin, was hit by intense flash flooding. A stalled storm system, fed by remnants of Tropical Storm Barry, dumped up to 20.33 inches (516 mm) of rain in parts of the region  .

Rivers rose astonishingly fast:

• The Guadalupe River surged ~26 ft in just 45 minutes, even reaching ~29 ft near Hunt  .
• Near Camp Mystic, gauges showed an increase of 20 ft in under 90 minutes  .

☠️ Impact

• Fatalities: Over 110–119 people, including at least 36 children, have died across the region; 95–100+ confirmed in Kerr County alone  .
• Missing: Roughly 160–172 people, many of them campers, remain unaccounted for  .
• Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp by the Guadalupe, lost 27 campers and counselors, with additional missing individuals  .

⚠️ Rapid onset & warning issues

The flooding struck before dawn on July 4, catching many unaware while sleeping. Despite a flood watch, the intensity overwhelmed local forecasts:

• Huntsville saw water levels rise 1 ft every 5 minutes  .
• Many camps lacked proper sirens or flood alerts; locals now emphasize the region’s nickname, “Flash Flood Alley”  .

🚑 Rescue & recovery

• 400+ personnel from state, federal, and volunteer organizations, including Texas National Guard and U.S. Coast Guard, participated in rescue missions along riverbanks  .
• 400–850+ people were rescued; recovery efforts continued with heavy equipment amid debris ().
• Governor Abbott has issued disaster declarations and lowered state flags to half-staff, honoring victims; federal aid and disaster unemployment assistance are now available  .

🔍 Why this was so deadly

The Hill Country’s steep, rocky terrain channels rain into narrow waterways, and dry, impermeable soils lead to rapid runoff. These geographical factors, combined with intense tropical moisture, make flash floods especially dangerous here  .

💔 Human Toll

The devastation hit deeply:

• Families and communities suffered heavy losses, including public figures—country star Pat Green lost relatives in the floods  .
• Dozens of tragic stories emerged: siblings found holding hands, parents who died saving children ().

🔔 Aftermath & response

• Investigations are underway into warning system failures and preparedness, as criticism mounts over lack of sirens and early alerts ().
• Volunteers, charities, and governmental bodies are mobilizing aid. Relief efforts continue, and debris-clearance is being handled carefully to preserve evidence and help locate missing people  .

✅ Key Takeaway

• A historic flash flood overwhelmed Central Texas.
• The death toll is one of the highest in recent decades.
• Flash Flood Alley lived up to its name—very sudden and extremely hazardous.
• Authorities are now scrutinizing preparedness, and long-term improvements in warning systems are under discussion.