Texas Flooding 2025: Summer Camps Submerged, Rescues Underway

Texas Flash Floods Leave Camps Devastated, Search Efforts Continue as More Rain Looms.

Texas, July 6, 2025 — Emergency responders continue to search for missing individuals after catastrophic flash floods swept through central Texas, devastating several summer camps and low-lying communities. Authorities have confirmed multiple fatalities, with damage spanning across Bastrop, Travis, and surrounding counties.

The flooding, triggered by more than 10 inches of rain in just 24 hours, overwhelmed rivers and drainage systems, forcing hundreds to evacuate and leaving numerous areas submerged. Campsites housing children and staff were among the hardest hit, prompting widespread rescue efforts by local and federal agencies.

Camps Overrun as Waters Rise

In Bastrop County, emergency crews were dispatched to a youth camp late Friday night after water levels rose unexpectedly. According to officials, at least three campers were reported missing while dozens were rescued by boat and helicopter. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed ongoing search operations, now in their third day.

“We’re focusing all available resources on locating the missing and ensuring the safety of those still stranded,” said DPS spokesperson Maria Allen.

Across the region, rising water damaged critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power lines. The Lower Colorado River Authority issued warnings as river gauges surpassed flood stage in multiple locations.

Evacuation Warnings and Continued Rainfall

Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 14 counties and mobilized the Texas National Guard. Shelters have been set up across the affected regions, with American Red Cross volunteers providing emergency assistance.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecast continued rainfall through early next week, increasing the risk of further flash floods. “Saturated ground and overflowing rivers create dangerous conditions,” warned NWS hydrologist Kevin Morales.

Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas have been urged to evacuate immediately and avoid attempting to cross submerged roads.

Past Patterns and Expert Warnings

This week’s floods are part of a larger pattern of extreme weather events tied to climate variability. Experts from the University of Texas noted that the region has experienced a 20% increase in intense rainfall events over the past decade.

“This is no longer an isolated incident. We’re seeing a clear trend of heavier storms overwhelming outdated infrastructure,” said Dr. Rachel Kim, a climate scientist specializing in urban flood resilience.

In 2015 and 2018, similar flooding impacted the same regions, though this year’s rainfall totals have already exceeded prior records for July.

Federal Assistance and Ongoing Operations

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is assessing the damage and coordinating relief efforts. Search-and-rescue operations remain a priority, especially around campgrounds near the Colorado River basin.

CNN and local news outlets have reported coordinated missions involving drones, K9 units, and mobile command centers.

Officials urge the public to stay updated via official channels and heed all evacuation notices.