On Friday, Texas lawmakers paused their July 4 celebrations to address a tragic flood situation in the Hill Country, where at least 13 people have lost their lives and over 20 children are reported missing.
Rescue teams using both helicopters and boats are actively searching for individuals affected by the severe rain in the Kerr County area, notorious for its summer camps.
Camp Mystic, a girls’ camp in the region, had reported about 20 children unaccounted for by Friday. The Guadalupe River gauge in Hunt saw a rapid 22-foot surge in water levels within just two hours, according to reports.
“This is heartbreaking. I urge everyone to pray for the families who have lost loved ones and those still unaccounted for,” stated Rep. Troy Nairs (R-Texas) on social media. He expressed gratitude toward the National Guard and first responders for their ongoing efforts to save lives.
Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn also voiced their concerns on the platform X, expressing sadness over the situation.
“Please pray for everyone in Hill Country, especially Camp Mystic. Today, I spoke with TDEM and Governor Abbott; multiple helicopters are conducting search and rescue missions,” Cruz shared, noting President Trump’s commitment to support Texas during this difficult time.
“We are thinking of the families affected and those still missing following this devastating flood,” Cornyn mentioned in his post, while also referencing Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly’s update on the search efforts.
Chip Roy (R), representing the San Antonio area, echoed similar sentiments, sharing messages from others calling for prayers.
Nearby lawmakers also released statements showing their support for those impacted by the floods. Rep. Tony Gonzalez expressed his prayers for fellow Texans going through this calamity.
Rep. Pfluger (R) acknowledged the swift response from first responders and community leaders who helped in the midst of the disaster, thanking them for mobilizing quickly.
“Our thoughts are with those still unaccounted for,” he added, particularly mentioning the families connected to Camp Mystic.
Councilman Vicente Gonzales labeled the incident a “tragic” weather event and commended the courage of first responders involved in rescue operations.
“Lorena and I are devastated by the floods in Kerr County. We sincerely extend our condolences to the families of those lost and pray for the safe return of the missing,” he noted.
Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick highlighted their communication with the families of the missing children. Abbott emphasized that “the immediate priority is to save lives” in an address made early Friday.
Authorities have cautioned that the situation is ongoing, and the death toll could rise.
During his Independence Day celebrations at the White House, President Trump also connected with Texas officials, offering to provide any necessary assistance.
