• Texas's Guadalupe River rose dramatically, leading to severe flooding and multiple fatalities.
• At least 13 fatalities have been confirmed, with more casualties expected.
• 20 campers remain unaccounted for, prompting extensive search and rescue efforts.
• Heavy rainfall of up to 12 inches has been reported, straining local resources.
• State officials warn of additional rain and advise residents to avoid travel in impacted areas.

Tragedy struck Texas as severe flash flooding hit the hill country region, resulting in at least 13 confirmed deaths. The flooding has particularly impacted the Guadalupe River area, where it rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes, prompting local officials to warn of potential further casualties. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick indicated that some of the deceased were children, and the search continues for those missing, including 20 campers from Camp Mystic located along the river, according to CBS News, SCMP, and Le Monde.

Evacuations and search operations have intensified as officials manage the escalating situation. Patrick stated that the campers are reported missing but could be safe, "they could be in a tree, they could be out of communication," highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the search efforts. The summer camp initially had around 750 campers on site when the floods occurred, and officials revealed the camp sustained a “catastrophic level of flooding,” leaving them without power or water, as reported by CBS News, SCMP, and Le Monde.

The rainfall within the region exceeded 12 inches, significantly surpassing normal levels and overwhelming local infrastructure. Videos circulating on social media depicted the scale of the destruction, with homes and trees swept away. Governor Abbott conveyed the gravity of the situation, stating that rescue operations involving approximately 500 personnel and 14 helicopters have been underway to assist victims and find the missing, according to CBS News, SCMP, and Le Monde.

Officials caution that while the rain has diminished, forecasts indicate another deluge may follow, exacerbating the already dire circumstances. Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly emphasized the area's vulnerability to such disasters, describing the region as "the most dangerous river valley in the United States." Flood warnings remain in effect, urging residents near the river to seek higher ground amid ongoing rescue and recovery operations, according to CBS News, SCMP, and Le Monde.