Significant Decrease in Missing Persons After Texas Floods; Search Continues for Remaining Individuals
Kerr County officials announced on Saturday, July 19, 2025, that the number of people missing following the devastating July 4th Texas floods has significantly decreased from 97 to just three. This announcement comes as a result of intensive verification efforts conducted by over 1,000 local, state, and federal authorities.
The initial count of missing persons was over 160, later revised to approximately 97 as more information became available. The reduction is attributed to diligent follow-up work, with many individuals initially reported missing being located alive and removed from the list.
Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations Focus on Guadalupe River Watershed
Despite the substantial decrease in the number of missing individuals, search and rescue operations continue in Kerr County. Recovery efforts are primarily focused along the Guadalupe River watershed, where the remaining three individuals are believed to be.
Statewide Impact: Seven Still Missing Across Texas
While Kerr County was the hardest hit, other areas of Texas were also affected by the floods. Reports indicate that three people are still unaccounted for in Travis County and one in Burnet County, bringing the total number of missing across the state to seven.
Kerr County Death Toll Reaches 107, Statewide Toll at Least 135
The confirmed death toll in Kerr County stands at 107, including 70 adults and 37 children. Across the state of Texas, at least 135 people have lost their lives due to the catastrophic flash floods.
Texas Legislature to Convene Special Session to Address Flood Recovery and Prevention
Texas lawmakers will convene a special legislative session to address flood recovery, emergency measures, and potential improvements to warning systems. Special committees on flooding and disaster preparedness have been formed and are scheduled to visit Kerrville on July 31st to hear from residents affected by the floods.
Catastrophic Flash Floods Devastate Texas Hill Country on July 4th
The catastrophic flash floods occurred in the Texas Hill Country on July 4, 2025, particularly impacting Kerr County. The Guadalupe River rose rapidly, between 20 and 26 feet, causing widespread destruction throughout the region.
Early Reports Exaggerated Extent of Missing Persons
In the days following the floods, initial reports indicated that over 160 people were unaccounted for in Kerr County. This number fluctuated as more reports came in and verification efforts got underway, highlighting the challenges of gathering accurate information in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
President Trump Visits Affected Area on July 11th
On July 11, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump visited the flood-affected areas in Texas, offering support and assessing the damage firsthand.
Adverse Weather Conditions Hamper Search Efforts
Mid-July brought additional challenges to search and rescue teams, as forecasts of more rain threatened to further complicate recovery efforts and potentially exacerbate the already dangerous conditions.
Kerrville Grapples with Aftermath of Historic Flood
Kerr County, particularly the areas along the Guadalupe River, was the hardest-hit region. The Texas Hill Country, known for its vacation cabins, youth camps, and campgrounds, experienced unprecedented devastation.
Camp Mystic Suffers Significant Losses
Among the affected locations was Camp Mystic, a century-old Christian summer camp for girls located along the Guadalupe River. The camp tragically lost at least 27 campers and counselors in the flood.
Key Figures Lead Response Efforts
Kerr County officials, including Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice and Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr., have been actively involved in providing updates and leading local response efforts. Texas Governor Greg Abbott called for the special legislative session and has defended the response efforts of local authorities.
Over 1,000 local, state, and federal personnel, including FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams, police, fire, and emergency management, have been involved in search and rescue, recovery, and verification operations. Thousands of volunteers from across the country have also assisted in clean-up and recovery efforts.
Scrutiny Over Warning Systems and Official Response
Questions have been raised regarding the adequacy of warning systems in Kerr County, which reportedly lacked a system despite prior opportunities to finance one. President Trump and Governor Abbott have defended the effectiveness of local authorities' response, pushing back against criticisms regarding heavy rainfall forecasts and initial flash flood reports.
Legislative Priorities Focus on Early Warning Systems and Emergency Communications
The floods have added urgency to the legislative agenda, with Governor Abbott designating bills related to early warning systems and emergency communications as priorities for the special session. One proposed bill would require building standards for youth camps in 100-year floodplains.
Need for Improved Disaster Preparedness in Flood-Prone Region
The overwhelming nature of this flood, exceeding a 100-year event, highlights the critical need for improved disaster preparedness and infrastructure in a region naturally prone to flash flooding.
