A powerful timelapse video posted on Twitter reveals the frightening speed of the flash flood that struck Kerr County, Texas, causing at least 51 deaths and sparking frantic searches for missing children. While much of the U.S. celebrated July 4, the area near Kerrville was overwhelmed by fast-rising waters from the Guadalupe River.
Among those lost are 15 children, and rescue crews are working around the clock to find over 20 girls who were attending Camp Mystic, a summer camp swept up in the flood. The camp lost power, water, and internet, leaving officials concerned but hopeful that some missing children are simply out of contact.
Tragically, the mother of nine-year-old Janie Hunt confirmed her daughter died in the flood. The Kerrville Police Department said rescue operations will continue until everyone is accounted for, with hundreds of responders from across Texas providing aid.
The timelapse shows a group walking toward a low point in the road before the floodwaters surge in, turning a clear path into a dangerous river in about seven minutes. Viewers expressed horror and questioned the warnings and preparedness.
Rainfall continues in the region, prompting new flood alerts from the National Weather Service. Governor Greg Abbott extended the emergency declaration and requested federal support.
Officials explained the flood’s cause: heavy rain poured over both forks of the Guadalupe River, causing the south fork to rise dramatically and combine with the north fork, resulting in catastrophic flooding.
