At least 82 people have tragically lost their lives in catastrophic flooding that swept through central Texas, with many more still unaccounted for. The disaster struck in the early hours of July 4th, unleashing torrential rains that caused the Guadalupe River to rise by an alarming 26 feet in some areas, leading to widespread devastation across several counties, particularly in Kerr County.

As search and rescue operations continue, officials are grappling with the aftermath and facing scrutiny over the effectiveness of local alert systems. Eyewitness accounts reveal harrowing scenes, with survivors recounting their desperate attempts to escape the rising waters. One survivor described guiding children to safety amid chaos, emphasizing the horrific conditions they endured.

The situation remains critical as additional rainfall is forecasted through Tuesday, threatening to exacerbate the already dire circumstances. With the ground saturated, any further precipitation could prove life-threatening. Local authorities are committed to leaving no stone unturned in their search for missing persons, including campers from a Christian summer camp in Kerr County, where several children remain unaccounted for.

The community is rallying together, with hundreds of volunteers aiding recovery efforts near the Guadalupe River. However, as the death toll rises, the emotional toll on families and the community is profound. President Donald Trump has signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, underscoring the severity of this tragic event.

As rescue teams comb through disaster sites, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. The people of Texas are in desperate need of support, and the full scale of the disaster is still unfolding. Stay tuned for live updates as this story develops.