Only three people remain missing after devastating flash floods struck Texas Hill Country on July 4, down from nearly 100 initially unaccounted for, officials said Saturday.
“This remarkable progress reflects countless hours of coordinated search and rescue operations, careful investigative work, and an unwavering commitment to bringing clarity and hope to families during an unimaginably difficult time,” said Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice.
The floods, triggered by rapidly rising waters on the Guadalupe River, killed at least 135 people across Texas, with 107 deaths reported in Kerr County alone. Most casualties occurred along the river near popular tourist destinations and summer camps, including Camp Mystic, which lost at least 27 campers and staff.
The Guadalupe rose 26 feet before dawn, destroying homes and vehicles. Experts said the flooding exceeded FEMA’s 100-year event estimate and overwhelmed a region lacking a proper alert system.
President Donald Trump and Gov. Greg Abbott have defended local response efforts amid criticism over warnings.
Search crews continue working with helicopters, drones, and boats, despite earlier delays caused by weather.