Tragedy strikes hard for Texas families and visitors after devastating floods caused by torrential rains in the Texas mountain region, where the overflow of the Guadalupe River has left a preliminary toll of at least 82 people dead, including 28 minors, according to official reports updated on Sunday, July 6.
According to the Efe news agency, the ravages left by the flooding of the Guadalupe River, which stretches for 370 kilometers and divides several towns in half, reach as far as the eye can see. Cars overturned with their tires upside down, like toys abandoned by a child; chimeras of debris with pieces of windows, canoes, mattresses and light poles; pieces of asphalt scattered like puzzle pieces. Among the debris, the various security forces deployed in the area continued their search for the missing. In boats, helicopters and on foot, the authorities searched the area and managed to rescue some 850 people alive, according to local leaders.
Search continues for Camp Mystic girls
One of the most distressing cases involves 10 missing girls who were part of Camp Mystic, a traditional summer camp for girls located near Hunt, Texas, as well as a camp counselor.
The site is located next to the Guadalupe River, one of the most affected by the overflow.
The tragedy occurred after a sudden rise in the water level caused by heavy rains in less than 48 hours, which caused the river to sweep away tents, huts and vehicles.
Search and rescue teams are working around the clock as parents and family members wait for news with heavy hearts. Four families have already confirmed the death of their daughters, according to CNN.
“We don’t know who is missing.”
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said the death toll could continue to rise due to the difficulty in identifying all those affected.
“Thousands of people came to spend the Fourth of July weekend with RVs, tents or renting cabins near the river…many of them are not officially registered, and that complicates knowing how many people are still missing,” he explained.
According to Patrick, more than 800 people have been rescued alive so far by emergency crews, although time is still playing against finding more survivors.
Even so, the search effort continues without pause, according to CNN news network.
“I hope miracles keep happening.”
In an interview with NBC, Patrick was hopeful, recalling previous cases where people were found alive many miles downriver.
“In other storms, we have found people alive up to 24 kilometers downstream. We don’t give up. Every minute that goes by it gets harder, but we keep looking,” he said.
The lieutenant governor also confirmed that he has been in contact with the families of the Camp Mystic girls, trying to provide emotional support.
“We must maintain hope, but without generating false expectations. We must be sincere and compassionate at the same time,” he said.
Federal disaster declaration approved
In the midst of the crisis, President Donald Trump confirmed that he will honor the federal disaster declaration signed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
This will allow federal resources to be sent to support rescue and recovery efforts.
This decision is significant, as so far this year, the president had rejected similar requests in other states, insisting that the responsibilities lie primarily with the local authorities.
The declaration will allow affected communities to access federal assistance, including help to repair damaged homes, temporary shelter support and funds for emergency services.
Warning for other regions
The National Weather Service (NWS) is keeping warnings in effect for several regions of south and central Texas due to the risk of additional heavy rains.
Residents and tourists are advised to stay informed through official sources and follow all evacuation instructions.
If you have family or friends in the Texas Hill Country, especially in areas near the Guadalupe River, it is important to check on them.
The American Red Cross has set up hotlines to locate missing persons, and Latin American consulates in Texas are offering assistance to affected citizens.
For support or information, you can contact the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcross.org.
No nos rendimos. Cada minuto que pasa se vuelve más difícil, pero seguimos buscando
