Flood disaster in the US: At least 13 dead, more than 20 children missing
At least 13 people have lost their lives in a flash flood caused by heavy rainfall in central Texas, and more than 20 children from a summer camp, including some children, are missing. Authorities are conducting an extensive search-and-rescue operation to locate the missing individuals.
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Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick stated at a press conference on Friday that approximately 23 children were missing from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls near the town of Hunt.
It was stated that there were a total of 750 children at the summer camp. Patrick said, "These children may be lost, or communication may simply have been cut off. They may be stranded in trees."
14 helicopters, 12 drones, and 9 water rescue teams were dispatched to the scene. More than 500 personnel are participating in search-and-rescue efforts in the region. Officials stated that the takeoff of some helicopters was delayed due to poor weather conditions.
"WE WILL LEAVE NO STONE UNTURNED"
Addressing the families of the missing campers, Patrick said, "We will work 24/7 to find your daughters, leaving no stone unturned and checking every tree. We will do everything humanly possible."
PROMISE OF SUPPORT FROM PRESIDENT TRUMP
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said that the White House had contacted them several times regarding the incident and that President Donald Trump had clearly conveyed the message, "We will have whatever we need."
GUADALUPE RIVER OVERFLOWED
Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice stated that the flood occurred while preparations were underway for the July 4th holiday and that the north and south forks of the Guadalupe River merged dangerously around 3:00 AM, causing the overflow. Rice said, "There were warnings, but we did not expect such a rapid and destructive flood. The water level reached the bridges in just one or two hours."
DAM SAFETY BEING EVALUATED
It was reported that the US Army Corps of Engineers is inspecting the Canyon Lake dam northeast of San Antonio. Lieutenant Governor Patrick announced that the dam is believed to be safe, but there is a risk of more rain and new flash floods in the region.
CALL FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS TO STAY PUT
While Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha called on residents in the area to "stay put," it was noted that some citizens have been evacuated and can seek help at temporary shelters that have been set up.
The National Weather Service had issued a flash flood warning for Kerr County on Thursday, which was then upgraded throughout the night to declare a "flood emergency." A separate warning was issued for Kerrville as of 5:34 AM on Friday.
Officials state that the death toll may rise and that search efforts could last for several days.