A deadly flash flood swept through Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend, killing at least 82 people—including children—and sweeping away homes, camps, and vehicles in a matter of hours.
When & Where It Happened
The flash floods began overnight on July 4, triggered by a powerful, slow-moving storm fueled by remnants of Tropical Storm Barry and stagnant weather conditions.. Torrential rainfall—up to 10–12 inches in some areas—caused the Guadalupe River to rise around 26 feet in just 45 minutes, overwhelming communities like Hunt, Kerrville, Ingram, and Comfort.
Kerr County and the Texas Hill Country, long known as Flash Flood Alley, faced catastrophic impacts. In Kerrville, search teams found at least 75 deaths, many among campers and counselors at Camp Mystic, a century-old girls’ summer camp near Hunt.
The Human Toll
Authorities confirmed 82 deaths statewide, including 28 children, with dozens still missing—10 campers and a counselor from Camp Mystic included. Across multiple counties—Kerr, Travis, Burnet, Kendall, Tom Green, and Williamson—first responders have worked tirelessly amid heavy rain forecasts.
Search, Rescue, and Relief Efforts
More than 1,000 volunteers and rescue personnel, supported by helicopters, boats, drones, and search dogs, are leading ground operations. Over 800 people rescued so far.
Relief groups — including the Red Cross, Salvation Army, World Central Kitchen, Mercy Chefs, Operation BBQ Relief, TEXSAR, and others — are providing shelter, meals, medical assistance, and supplies. Local organizations, such as the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, mobilize to support families in Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Comfort, and Center Point.
How You Can Help After the Texas Flash Flood
Relief crews are still searching for missing people across Central Texas, and the best way to help right now is to avoid the disaster zones. Officials have asked volunteers and well-meaning visitors to stay away from the affected areas. Roads remain dangerous, and extra traffic can slow down rescue efforts. The safest, most effective way to support the victims is through donations.
Be Cautious of Scams
Unfortunately, disasters often bring out scammers looking to take advantage of people’s generosity. Before donating, always research the organization through trusted platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar to make sure your help reaches those in need.
Trusted Organizations Accepting Donations:
- Center Point Volunteer Fire Department — Donations can be made through Venmo using the verified username @CPVFDTX or by mailing checks directly to the department.
- Kerr County Flood Relief Fund — Managed by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, this fund supports ongoing rescue and rebuilding efforts.
- Salvation Army’s Kerrville Kroc Center — They are accepting non-perishable food, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, diapers, and other essentials. Donations can be dropped off at 855 Hays Street, Kerrville, Texas.
- TEXSAR (Texas Search and Rescue) — A volunteer-led search and rescue group actively working in flood-hit communities.
- World Central Kitchen — Providing food and clean water to first responders and displaced residents.
- Austin Pets Alive! — Caring for over 150 displaced pets from the flooding. They urgently need monetary donations and pet supplies to keep operations running.
- GoFundMe Verified Campaigns — The platform has compiled a list of verified fundraisers for individual families and victims impacted by the flooding.
- Charity Navigator (Texas Flood Relief Fund)
By donating to these trusted organizations, you can help provide food, shelter, supplies, and support to those who need it most while ensuring that your contributions make a real difference.
A Wake-Up Call
Residents and officials are calling this event a “100-year flood”, with many urging improvements to early warning systems and flash flood preparedness after alerts went out too late. The devastation makes clear the urgent need for better systems and infrastructure to protect Central Texas communities.
How You Can Stay in the Know
- Monitor weather alerts and be ready to seek higher ground.
- Support local relief and recovery efforts.
- Consider advocating for improved flash flood warning systems in your community.
We mourn those lost and stand with survivors. Let’s come together to help Central Texas rebuild — one donation, one action, one community at a time.
