A chilling timelapse video shared on social media shows how swiftly the flash flood hit Kerr County, Texas, resulting in at least 51 deaths and ongoing searches for missing children. While many celebrated July 4, residents near Kerrville faced a life-threatening flood as the Guadalupe River rose rapidly.
Fifteen children are among the confirmed dead, with rescue teams searching for more than 20 girls from Camp Mystic, a summer camp caught in the floodwaters. The camp lost power, water, and internet, making communication difficult. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said some missing children might simply be out of contact.
One mother confirmed the death of her nine-year-old daughter, Janie Hunt. The Kerrville Police Department promised to continue rescue efforts with hundreds of first responders assisting from across the state.
The video shows people walking near a dip in the road before floodwaters suddenly surge, turning a safe path into a dangerous torrent in about seven minutes. Many viewers expressed shock and grief, questioning why evacuation warnings were not enough.
The National Weather Service has issued new flood warnings as rain continues. Governor Greg Abbott extended the emergency declaration and requested federal aid.
Officials explained that heavy rain fell on both the north and south forks of the Guadalupe River. Normally manageable, the south fork rose from about seven feet to 29 feet in minutes, merging with the north fork to cause the deadly flood.
