A summer retreat along the Guadalupe River turned tragic as flash flooding swept through Texas, claiming at least 51 lives and leaving dozens missing. Kerr County was the hardest hit, suffering 43 fatalities, many of them children attending Camp Mystic, a popular riverside camp that was devastated by the sudden surge of water.

Camp Mystic, a longtime summer destination for families, was overwhelmed when floodwaters rushed through cabins and campsites. The disaster left families heartbroken and rescue teams working tirelessly to find survivors and recover victims amid the destruction.

The flooding followed intense rainfall combined with a phenomenon experts call a “flood wave”—a sudden and powerful surge of water that overwhelmed the region within minutes. Video footage captured the rapid flow of water crashing through riverbeds and sweeping away vehicles, buildings, and entire campsites.

Meteorologists explained that flood waves can reach speeds between 25 to 40 miles per hour, giving residents and visitors very little time to react or evacuate. The extreme speed and force of the water made escape difficult or impossible for many caught in its path.

Among the identified victims were young campers and elderly residents staying in riverside cabins. Although some people were rescued by helicopter, many remain missing, including an entire family vacationing near Hunt, Texas.

Survivors shared harrowing stories about how quickly the floodwaters rose and how little warning they had. These firsthand accounts highlight the suddenness and severity of the disaster, which has left the community grieving.

Emergency crews have expanded their search efforts, but hope remains fragile. Officials are urging caution as recovery and rescue operations continue in flood-damaged areas throughout Texas.

As communities mourn and support affected families, the tragedy serves as a somber reminder of nature’s unpredictability and power. What began as a joyful holiday weekend became one marked by sorrow and loss.