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texas Summer Camp Flood: Hundreds Evacuated as Guadalupe River Overflows
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A sudden and intense flash flood along the Guadalupe River in central Texas forced the overnight evacuation of approximately 700 children from summer camps in the early hours of friday. Camp Mystic, a girls’ camp located directly on the riverbank, sustained significant damage, prompting a large-scale rescue operation to ensure the safety of all campers.
Camp Mystic Devastated by flash Flood
According to a 13-year-old camper,Elinor Lester,the camp suffered extensive damage. “The camp was completely destroyed,” Lester stated, recounting how a helicopter was used to evacuate peopel from the site. She described a harrowing scene where campers had to navigate floodwaters to reach safety.
Camp officials communicated with parents via email, assuring them that if they had not been contacted, their child was safe and accounted for. The focus remains on reuniting all campers with their families at designated reunification centers.
Camp Mystic sustained significant damage after the Guadalupe River flash flood.
Credit:AP
President Trump Pledges Federal Aid
Then-President Donald Trump, addressing reporters, described the flooding as “shocking” and “terrible,” promising federal assistance for the affected areas.
Summer Camps in “Flash Flood Alley”
Camp Mystic is located in an area known as “flash flood alley,” characterized by soil conditions that led to rapid runoff during heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of sudden flooding. Other camps in the vicinity, including Camp la Junta for boys, were also impacted. Camp La Junta reported that all campers were safe but faced delayed evacuation due to the widespread flooding.
Did You Know? The Guadalupe River, known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, is also prone to flash floods due to its location in a region with steep terrain and impermeable soils.
Water rises from severe flooding along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County, Texas on Friday.
Credit:AP
Community Response and Reunification Efforts
A local elementary school in Ingram, Texas, served as a reunification center for families seeking to reconnect with their children. The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country is collecting donations to support the ongoing disaster relief efforts.
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly emphasized the collaborative effort to evacuate the children and provide assistance to affected residents.He noted that residential areas, RV parks, and campsites were among the hardest-hit locations.
Guadalupe River Flood: By the numbers
| Location | Impact | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Camp Mystic | Extensive damage, camp flooded | Evacuated, children accounted for |
| Camp la Junta | Affected by flooding | All campers safe, evacuation delayed |
| Kerr County | Scattered residential areas, RV parks, campsites hit hard | Ongoing rescue and relief efforts |
Understanding Flash floods in Central Texas
Central Texas is especially vulnerable to flash floods due to a combination of factors, including its topography, soil composition, and whether patterns. The region’s steep hills and shallow,rocky soils prevent rainwater from being absorbed quickly,leading to rapid runoff and the potential for sudden and devastating floods.According to the Texas Water Development Board, flash floods are the
