Rescue operations are in full swing following devastating floods that resulted in significant loss, particularly among children.
**Desperate Efforts Continue for Missing as Texas Floods Claim 32 Lives**

**Desperate Efforts Continue for Missing as Texas Floods Claim 32 Lives**
A tragic flash flood in central Texas has left a community in mourning as authorities search for survivors.
A frantic search is currently in progress in central Texas after unprecedented flash floods took the lives of at least 32 individuals, including 14 children. The incident occurred when the Guadalupe River swelled more than 26 feet in under an hour during the early hours of Friday, catching many victims unawares as they slept.
Kerr County officials reported that 27 children are unaccounted for from a Christian youth camp located alongside the river. Thankfully, around 850 individuals have been rescued amidst this disaster. However, there are renewed concerns as weather forecasts indicate that additional rain and potential flooding may further afflict the region.
The floods severely impacted several areas, including mobile homes and summer camps, where many had gathered to celebrate the 4th of July. During a press conference on Saturday afternoon, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced he has signed an expanded disaster declaration to enhance search and rescue operations. He emphasized that efforts would not cease until every victim is accounted for, stating, "we will stop when the job is completed."
This is currently a search and rescue mission, as officials clarify that they remain hopeful instead of shifting to a recovery operation. Rescuers have been combing the Guadalupe River, looking for anyone who may have been swept away by the floodwaters. Much of their focus is directed towards Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp near Hunt, Texas, which is grappling with the tragedy of 27 missing children.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick informed BBC's Radio 4 PM that many of the missing children are under the age of 12. He warned that the number of individuals who remain unaccounted for might be higher as some were holiday visitors. The camp has reached out to approximately 750 parents, advising them that any child not contacted directly is currently considered to be missing.
Families have voiced their heartbreak publicly, with some confirming their children's tragic fates among the deceased. In response, US President Donald Trump affirmed that the federal administration stands in solidarity with local authorities during this crisis. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem expressed the president's devastation over the casualties and pledged full federal support, including the deployment of the Coast Guard to aid search operations.
Travis County has also reported fatalities, with another two individuals confirmed dead and ten missing due to the flooding. Adding to the community’s distress, meteorologists have warned of the possibility of further rain this weekend, with expectations of an additional 2 to 5 inches, and local regions potentially facing up to 10 inches of rain on already saturated ground.