The governor of Texas, Greg Abbott, warned of a “deadly risk” due to flooding in central and southern Texas, caused by heavy rains that have saturated the ground. During a conference in Kerrville, one of the regions hardest hit by the rainfall, Abbott confirmed that the danger will persist for at least the next 24 to 48 hours.
The Republican president emphasized the urgency of following civil protection recommendations and asked to avoid unnecessary travel, especially in rural areas, where deaths have already been recorded due to vehicles swept away by currents. He also confirmed that 41 people are still missing.
Under surveillance
The most affected areas include Kerrville, Big Country, Concho Valley and Central Texas. In these regions:
The National Weather Service(NWS) maintains active flood warnings.
Rainfall of up to 2 inches per hour has been reported at some locations.
Roads are blocked and houses are damaged, especially near the Guadalupe River, which continues to rise dangerously.
Abbott also indicated that the ground is completely saturated, which increases the risk of flash flooding, even with moderate rainfall.
The National Weather Service (NWS) explained that in a span of just 12 hours on Friday, more than 30 centimeters of rainfall was recorded in the region known as the Texas Hill Country, just outside of San Antonio.
This volume of rainfall caused the Guadalupe River at Hunt to reach its second highest level ever recorded, rising 9.9 meters, triggering flash floods and landslides in areas near homes, roads and recreational centers.
Death toll rises to 100
This Monday, the White House confirmed that the death toll rose to 100 people, according to the most recent count by federal and local authorities.
Of the total, 75 bodies were recovered in Kerr County, one of the hardest hit by the natural disaster.
During a press conference on Monday, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha Jr. said that of the 75 bodies recovered in his jurisdiction, 48 were adults and 27 were minors, mostly girls who were camping or participating in outdoor activities.
Leitha also confirmed that at least 41 people are still missing, and that search and rescue teams are working around the clock, supported by the National Guard and Red Cross volunteers.
Camp confirms the death of 27 girls and counselors
Amid the devastation, Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ camp located near the Guadalupe River, confirmed the deaths of 27 people, including girls and counselors who were staying overnight when the current swept through the facility.
In a statement, the camp administration expressed their sorrow and said they are actively collaborating with local and state authorities in the recovery efforts.
Families of the victims have begun arriving in the area, many from other Texas cities and neighboring states.
Reaction from the White House
Presidential spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt offered a statement from Washington, calling the disaster “one of the worst natural events in the recent history of the state of Texas.”
Leavitt asked the population to remain alert, as the rains continue in certain regions of the state.
He also announced that President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Texas later this week to meet with affected families and oversee response operations.
The spokeswoman also responded to criticism from Democratic leaders who have blamed the administration for cuts to the National Weather Service.
Leavitt called these accusations “lies” and assured that the current focus is to provide support to the affected communities.
Special alert for drivers
The Texas governor’s warning focused especially on the risk to drivers:
No hace falta una gran crecida para que un auto sea arrastrado. Basta menos de un pie de agua para convertir una carretera en una trampa mortal
The Hispanic community – present in large numbers in areas such as Kerrville, San Antonio and Austin – should take extra precautions:
Avoid crossing bridges or flooded roads.
Tune in to local Spanish radio stations for immediate updates.
Communicate your evacuation plans to your family if you are in a risk zone.
Where to ask for help
2-1-1 line for shelter, food and medical services.
It offers real-time alerts.
Organizations such as RAICES and the Latino Texas Civic Network offer bilingual support.
Governor Abbott’s warning call should not be taken lightly.
With heavy rains expected through July 8 and saturated soils, the risk of more deaths and flooding is real.
Avoid driving, stay informed and follow official recommendations.
Prevention can save your life and that of your family.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
