Terror and Rescue as Flood Hits Texas Camp

By ClickBuzzNews Staff

A deadly flash flood swept through Camp Mystic, a private Christian girls’ camp along the Guadalupe River near Hunt, Texas, on July 3, transforming what was meant to be a joyful summer retreat into a heartbreaking scene of chaos and loss. Torrential rains caused the river to rise at a dangerous rate, trapping campers, counselors, and staff with little time to react.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the floodwaters overtook the banks of the Guadalupe River in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Emergency crews, including the National Guard, game wardens, and local firefighters, responded quickly, rescuing dozens. However, four people, including at least two campers, were found dead in the aftermath.

A Rapid and Relentless Rise

The flash flood was caused by a sudden downpour that brought more than 5 inches of rain in just a few hours. The river surged, breaching its banks and inundating nearby cabins and tents. Many campers were asleep when the flood struck.

“We didn’t have time to think. The water just came in fast,” said Emily V., a 15-year-old camper who was rescued by a boat team. “People were screaming. Counselors were trying to help everyone get out safely. It was terrifying.”

Authorities confirmed that several vehicles were swept downstream, and one was found wrapped around a tree several hundred yards from the camp. The victims, whose identities have been withheld pending notification of families, were among those trying to evacuate as the water levels surged.

Massive Response, Emotional Toll

Governor Greg Abbott issued a statement expressing condolences to the victims’ families and promising support for local authorities. The Red Cross has set up an emergency center in nearby Kerrville, where many of the rescued campers and their families have gathered.

“This is one of the most devastating natural disasters to hit this region in years,” said Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha. “The emotional toll on these young girls, their families, and our first responders is immense.”

Federal assistance has been requested through FEMA to help with recovery and cleanup. Teams have already begun damage assessments, and mental health counselors have been deployed to assist survivors.

Texas-flooding-tragedy-070625-01-2b5a4d79385d46198b7c11ef14dc72dd

A Beloved Camp in Mourning

Camp Mystic, founded in 1926, has long been a summer tradition for Texas families. Known for its Christian-based programs and riverside setting, the camp had no history of serious flooding — until now.

“We are heartbroken beyond words,” said a statement released by the camp’s administration. “We are cooperating fully with emergency officials and doing everything possible to support the families affected by this tragedy.”

Former campers have taken to social media to share their grief and memories, turning platforms like Instagram and Facebook into spaces of collective mourning and solidarity.

Climate, Warnings, and the Next Steps

Meteorologists warned that the Hill Country region remains under threat from additional storms. The National Weather Service had issued a flash flood warning for the area the night before, but many residents say the intensity of the storm exceeded expectations.

Some critics are now calling for better early-warning systems and more robust emergency plans for summer camps located near rivers and flood zones.

In the coming days, investigators will examine whether protocols at Camp Mystic were followed and whether any structural or procedural improvements could have minimized the tragedy.