Deadly flooding along the Guadalupe River forces mass evacuations and disaster declarations in Texas.

A sudden deluge of heavy rain on July 4 led to the Guadalupe River overflowing its banks, transforming communities in Kerr County into active disaster zones.

Authorities described the flooding as “catastrophic,” with water levels rising rapidly, up to 25 feet in just 45 minutes, submerging roads, homes, and entire neighborhoods.

The National Weather Service reported rainfall totals between 5 and 11 inches by mid-morning, with more rain expected throughout the day.

Emergency responders rushed to evacuate residents, particularly those living near creeks, streams, and the river itself.

The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office confirmed fatalities but withheld further details pending notification of next of kin.

The entire county was declared an “extremely active scene,” and officials urged residents to shelter in place unless they were in immediate danger from rising waters.

Mass evacuations and rescue operations intensify

Flash flood emergencies were declared for Kerrville, Ingram, Hunt, and surrounding communities as water inundated low-lying areas and major roadways.

Emergency shelters were quickly established, including at the First United Methodist Church in Kerrville, to provide refuge for displaced families.

The police and fire departments coordinated rescues, using boats and high-water vehicles to reach stranded residents and campers along the river.

The situation remained fluid throughout the day, with authorities warning that additional rainfall could worsen already dire conditions.

Local officials emphasized the importance of avoiding travel, as many roads were impassable and rescue crews needed clear access to affected areas.

Did you know?
The Guadalupe River, stretching over 230 miles, is a vital waterway for central Texas but is also prone to rapid flooding due to its steep terrain and history of intense rain events.

Disaster declarations and infrastructure damages mount

Kerrville’s mayor issued a formal disaster declaration as the city and county grappled with widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and businesses.

A summer camp for children along the river sustained “catastrophic damage,” though no children were present at the time.

In Ingram, an RV park was reportedly swept away by floodwaters, with families still inside their vehicles at the time of the disaster.

The National Weather Service and local officials continued to monitor river levels, warning that flooding could persist into the weekend as water moves downstream toward Comfort and other communities.

The full extent of the damage will take days to assess, but early reports indicate significant losses across the region.

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Community response and safety warnings

Local authorities urged residents to stay off the roads, avoid flooded areas, and heed evacuation orders immediately.

Temporary reunification centers, such as a Walmart store in Kerrville, were set up to help families separated by the disaster.

Emergency alerts repeatedly stressed that conditions were life-threatening and that those living near the Guadalupe River should move to higher ground without delay.

The city’s Fourth of July celebrations were canceled as officials focused all resources on rescue and recovery efforts.

The community rallied to support neighbors, with volunteers and first responders working around the clock to ensure the safety of those affected.

Recovery and risk of continued flooding

Authorities warned that the danger was not yet over, with more rain in the forecast and river levels still high.

The National Weather Service predicted that some areas could see an additional 1 to 2 inches of rain, prolonging the risk of flash flooding.

Residents were advised to remain vigilant, monitor official updates, and avoid returning to affected areas until they are declared safe.

The disaster underscores the challenges Texas faces from extreme weather, aging infrastructure, and the need for robust emergency preparedness.

As the region begins the long recovery process, officials are already assessing lessons learned to better protect communities in future flood events.