Over the July 4th weekend, a catastrophic natural disaster struck the heart of Texas, unleashing floods across six counties and leaving devastation in its wake. At least 104 people have been confirmed dead, among them 28 children. The state is reeling from the unprecedented destruction, mourning the lives lost while trying to recover from one of the deadliest flood events in recent memory.
Kerr County, nestled in the scenic Hill Country and known for its vibrant riverside communities, suffered the worst of the disaster. Water levels along the Guadalupe River surged to a staggering 26 feet, swallowing homes, vehicles, and businesses with terrifying speed. Families were forced to evacuate with little to no warning, many of them scrambling for higher ground in the middle of the night as the floodwaters rose.
One of the most heartbreaking tragedies occurred at Camp Mystic, a popular summer retreat situated on the banks of the Guadalupe River. What was meant to be a joyful and enriching experience for children turned into a nightmare. Twenty-seven campers and staff members were lost in the flood, and ten children remain unaccounted for. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to find survivors or recover the bodies of those still missing, though hope fades with each passing day.
Among the voices expressing grief is country music star Pat Green, who revealed that the floods had brought a “heartbreaking and deeply personal loss” to his family. His wife later confirmed that Green’s younger brother, his sister-in-law, and their two young daughters were swept away by the raging waters. The bodies of the couple have been recovered, but the search continues for their missing daughters.
Pat Green, known for his heartfelt lyrics and strong ties to his home state, released a statement on social media, thanking fans for their support and asking for prayers. “My heart is shattered,” he wrote. “We have lost a part of our family, and words can’t begin to express the pain we feel.”
The loss within the Green family has touched many across the country music world, prompting an outpouring of support and action. Fellow Texan and singer-songwriter Robert Earl Keen quickly organized a benefit concert, bringing together artists from across the state to raise funds for victims and their families. “This is more than just a disaster—this is personal,” Keen said. “These are our neighbors, our friends, our children.”
Actor and Yellowstone star Cole Hauser, who has strong family roots in Texas, has also stepped in to assist. Though not directly affected, he mobilized efforts to send emergency supplies, water, and protective gear to overwhelmed first responders across the affected counties. “We can’t undo what’s been done, but we can show up and help,” Hauser said in a recent interview. “Texas has always been about community, and now’s the time to prove it.”
Officials have called the flooding the worst natural disaster to strike Texas in over a decade. Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency across the six counties and authorized the deployment of the National Guard to assist in search-and-rescue efforts. Helicopters, boats, and canine units are all being used to comb through the debris and waterlogged neighborhoods.
Local churches and shelters have opened their doors to displaced families, and communities are coming together to offer meals, clean clothing, and emotional support. Still, the scale of the disaster has strained local resources. Entire neighborhoods are unrecognizable, their roads submerged, their homes torn from foundations. Recovery is expected to take months—if not years.
In the town of Ingram, just miles from Camp Mystic, a mother named Lisa Albright recounted the terrifying night the floodwaters rose. “We heard a strange roar outside, and within minutes, our backyard was a river. We grabbed our kids and ran. We lost everything, but we’re lucky to be alive.” Stories like Lisa’s are being shared throughout Texas, highlighting both the ferocity of the disaster and the strength of those who survived it.
Meteorologists have pointed to a combination of unusually heavy rainfall and upstream dam releases as the cause of the floods. More than 20 inches of rain fell in less than 48 hours in some areas, overwhelming rivers and creeks. While officials say efforts were made to warn residents, the sheer speed of the flooding caught many off guard.
As the state begins the long process of grieving and rebuilding, residents are leaning heavily on one another for support. Candlelight vigils are being held in several towns to remember those lost, and memorials now line the once-peaceful banks of the Guadalupe River.
In the midst of devastation, stories of heroism are emerging. First responders and ordinary citizens risked their lives to save others—forming human chains, breaking through windows to rescue trapped families, and using kayaks and rafts to reach stranded individuals. Their bravery has not gone unnoticed and has become a source of hope during dark days.
Though this tragedy has shaken Texas to its core, the collective response shows the resilience and heart of its people. From celebrities rallying support to neighbors helping neighbors, a spirit of unity is growing in the shadow of disaster. As search efforts continue and communities begin to pick up the pieces, one thing remains clear: the road ahead will be long, but no one will walk it alone.
Our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragedy.