Update: Devastating July 2025 Texas Hill Country Floods – July 14 Report
On July 14 2025 Central Texas faces renewed flood threats with the statewide death toll reaching at least 131 and over 100 still missing Ongoing search efforts evacuations and new weather watches impact recovery amid rising criticism of warning systems .
Worsening Weather and Expanded Flood Watches
The National Weather Service NWS issued expanded flood watches on July 14 for a wide stretch of Central and South Texas including San Antonio Austin Kerrville New Braunfels Uvalde and Del Rio Rainfall persisted at rates of 1–3 inches per hour threatening already saturated ground and swollen rivers .
Also Read : Drew Timme Expected to Lead Pack of Nets Rookies Throughout Summer League
Hill Country regions face moderate 40–69% to slight 15–39% flash flood risks With water levels continuing to rise local officials urged residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate or prepare for immediate warnings .
Emergency Warnings Along Frio and Guadalupe Rivers
Uvalde County particularly near Concan saw dangerous surges in the Frio River which was expected to crest above 127 feet well beyond its major flood stage Similarly the Guadalupe River near Hunt was projected to reach a moderate flood stage of 146 feet Flood warnings prompted swift action in campgrounds and low-lying communities .
Staggering Fatalities and Missing Persons
Governor Greg Abbott confirmed that the statewide death toll reached 131 with over 100 individuals still missing most of them in the Kerrville area Kerr County alone reported 106 confirmed deaths and 97 unaccounted for The rising numbers make this the deadliest flood event in Texas in recent decades .
Camp Mystic Tragedy Raises Alarms
One of the most heart-wrenching tragedies occurred at Camp Mystic a Christian girls’ camp on the Guadalupe River After receiving an NWS alert at 114 am camp leaders delayed evacuation until around 230 am The floodwaters overwhelmed the area claiming 27 lives The delay and lack of effective communication have drawn sharp criticism from the public and emergency planners alike .
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Weather
Ongoing rain and hazardous debris forced temporary halts in search operations along the Guadalupe River However efforts resumed with over 2200 responders using sonar equipment and draining tools Mexican volunteer group $Los Topos$ also joined the mission helping clear debris and locate missing individuals .
Infrastructure and Emergency Response
Widespread damage to roads and bridges especially in Travis County has led to new temporary crossings and extended burn bans Federal disaster declarations by President Trump and Governor Abbott have unlocked FEMA assistance for impacted counties .
Climate and Policy in Focus
As the crisis unfolds questions surrounding climate change federal emergency preparedness and communication failures dominate discourse Experts point to intensified rainfall linked to climate shifts and criticize recent funding cuts to NOAA and the NWS .
Summary
Texas is grappling with a second devastating round of flooding following the catastrophic July 4 events As of July 14 2025 the death toll has surpassed 131 with over 100 still missing Search and rescue operations continue amid rainfall debris and rising demands for accountability and reform in emergency systems .