Kerr County, Texas, experienced a severe second round of flooding that halted rescue operations along the Guadalupe River. Initially, over 97 individuals were reported missing following the floods during the Fourth of July weekend; however, this number was subsequently revised down to three as extensive efforts by state and local agencies confirmed the safety of many. Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice expressed gratitude for the work of more than 1,000 local, state, and federal authorities involved in the response.
On July 15, Texas Governor Greg Abbott reported a decrease in the number of missing persons from over 160 to 97, emphasizing the progress made through coordinated search and rescue efforts. Rice highlighted the extensive investigative work that contributed to bringing comfort to families during this challenging time. Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly acknowledged the commitment of law enforcement and rescue teams, asserting that their professionalism and compassion were vital in providing answers to anxious families.
Many of those initially unaccounted for were likely tourists who had come to enjoy the Independence Day celebrations in the area. The flooding began on July 4, overwhelming the banks of the Guadalupe River in the early morning hours. As recovery operations continued, Abbott reported a statewide death toll of 135, with 116 fatalities occurring in Kerr County due to the flooding.
The community’s recovery efforts are ongoing, aiming to locate any remaining missing individuals while working to assist those affected by the devastating disaster.
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