In a rare moment of optimism amid deadly floodwaters in Texas, two little kids who had been reported missing were miraculously found alive, holding to a nearly 30-foot-high tree. Their survival brought a source of hope during an impending disaster that had already claimed scores of lives.
The children were discovered between Comfort and Homillus Road in Center Point, during intensive rescue operations. According to The Kerr County Lead, four bodies were also recovered in the same area, underscoring the scale of the ongoing tragedy.
Kerr County according to reports has been affected the worst, with at least 59 reported deaths as of Sunday. Authorities disclose they are still unable to account for the whole number of missing people, making the finding of the two girls all the more miraculous.
The victims include 21 children, including several from Camp Mystic, a popular Christian summer camp for girls in Hunt, Texas. According to reports, the floods “completely destroyed” the site.
One survivor, 13-year-old Elinor Lester, recounted the horror: “The camp was completely destroyed. A helicopter landed and started taking people away. It was really scary.”
The flash floods struck in the early hours of Friday, with water levels rising a staggering 26 feet (8 meters) in just 45 minutes. The deluge swept away homes, vehicles, and infrastructure, leaving hundreds stranded and dozens missing.
Flash flood watches remain in effect, as central Texas continues to experience additional rainfall. Officials warn that while waters may recede in some areas, new dangers may emerge.
Massive Search and Rescue Efforts Underway
Emergency crews have deployed helicopters, boats, and drones to locate missing persons and evacuate those trapped. Over 850 individuals were successfully rescued within the first 36 hours following the flooding.
President Donald Trump responded by signing a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, mobilizing FEMA support for the state. “These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost, and many still missing,” he posted on social media.
Support and Prayers Pour in for Texas
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared Sunday a statewide day of prayer, urging residents to remember the victims, the missing, and those involved in recovery efforts. “We will not rest until every missing Texan is found,” he vowed.
International condolences also came from Pope Leo XIV, who prayed in English during his Sunday blessing. “We pray for the families who lost loved ones, especially the young girls at summer camp, in this tragic flooding of the Guadalupe River.”
