Death toll from flash floods that struck central Texas on Friday has climbed to at least 109 people, with over 160 still missing
Gatekeepers News reports that search and rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors, but hope is fading four days after the catastrophe.
At least 87 victims died in Kerr County, where the Guadalupe River overflowed due to torrential downpours. Camp Mystic, a Christian all-girls’ summer camp, confirmed that 27 girls and staff members were among the dead, with five campers and one adult still missing.
Richard Eastland, 70, co-owner and director of Camp Mystic, lost his life trying to save the children.
“The whole community will miss him. He died a hero,” said local pastor Del Way.
The White House has rejected suggestions that budget cuts at the National Weather Service could have hindered the disaster response.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “That was an act of God… There were early and consistent warnings, and the National Weather Service did its job.”
President Donald Trump, who plans to visit Texas, pushed back on criticism, saying, “This is a 100-year catastrophe.” Texas Senator Ted Cruz emphasised the need for unity, stating, “Now is not the time for partisan finger-pointing.”
Local campaigner Nicole Wilson is calling for the installation of flood sirens in Kerr County, a system that has been debated for nearly a decade.
Texas Lt Gov Dan Patrick acknowledged that sirens might have saved lives and promised they would be in place by next summer.
Condolences have poured in from around the world, including a letter from King Charles III to President Trump expressing “profound sadness” about the flooding.
