Central Texas is once again grappling with the aftermath of heavy rain that began early Sunday, causing more flooding. In response, officials in Carr County have decided to halt all search and rescue operations along the Guadalupe River due to ongoing threats from the storm system affecting the area. They emphasized on social media that all rescuers, equipment, and vehicles “need to be removed from the river area immediately,” and that “volunteer activities are currently suspended until further notice.” Protecting lives is the main focus.
New Rains Heighten Risks for First Responders and Ministries
Fresh rainfall is projected to lead to significant flooding in San Saba County, prompting an evacuation order. Authorities are also alerting residents about rapid water levels and potential flooding risks along the Rio Grande, Southern Edwards Plateau, and Hill Country.
During this pause in search efforts, the Ingram Fire Department called for an immediate evacuation of the Guadalupe River Corridor in Kerr County, indicating a substantial risk of flash flooding.
Christian ministries are already active in the area following initial flood impacts. Organizations like the Samaritan’s Wallet and the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, including trained pastors, are on the ground providing assistance.
Franklin Graham expressed the need for prayers surrounding the affected families and communities. The National Religious Broadcasting Station (NRB) has issued a newsletter urging its members and the broader Christian community to advocate for those in Central Texas, pointing out that floods have been described as one of the deadliest natural disasters in the state’s history.
Josh Holland, the international director of BG-RRT, remarked on the deep devastation brought by these floods, which tragically took innocent lives as the Guadalupe River overflowed. Their team is prepared to offer mental and emotional support as needed.
Predictions indicate an additional 9-12 inches of rain. The Carr County Fire Department has warned residents via social media to evacuate immediately.
By late Sunday morning, the Lampasas River surged more than 30 feet within five hours, officially reaching a major flood stage. The San Saba River is also expected to peak at around 30 feet on Sunday night, following a rapid rise during the previous weekend’s floods where the Guadalupe River exceeded 20 feet.
Flood Alerts Expand Beyond Texas
In a wider context, flood alerts have reached approximately 20 million people from New Mexico through Texas and into parts of Western New York and Pennsylvania.
President Trump has declared a Presidential Disaster for several counties, including Burnett, Kerr, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis, Williamson, Kendall, Kimble, and Menard. This declaration allows residents and businesses to access the FEMA individual assistance program, according to a statement from Governor Greg Abbott.
The NRB has outlined specific points for intercession, which include:
- Prayers for families mourning lost loved ones.
- Support for those still searching for missing individuals.
- Safety for emergency responders.
- Assistance for local churches and ministries that are serving their communities.
- Continued support for NRB member organizations as they spread compassion.
Originally published on July 14th, 2025.
