Central Texas, October 13, 2025
News Summary
Recovery efforts continue in Central Texas after catastrophic floods that caused 135 fatalities, including children and campers. The torrential rains overwhelmed emergency responders, leading to significant destruction of homes and infrastructure. With 10 inches of rain falling in less than an hour, entire communities are devastated. Most homes lacked adequate flood insurance, adding to the financial crisis. Community organizations are stepping up to assist with recovery efforts alongside local volunteers, while FEMA faces challenges in processing claims.
Central Texas is continuing its recovery efforts following devastating floods between July 4 and 5, 2025, that resulted in at least 135 fatalities across several counties, including Kerr, Burnet, Kendall, Gillespie, Tom Green, and Travis. The floods claimed the lives of 71 adults and 31 children, according to reports. Among the casualties, 27 campers and counselors from Camp Mystic, a summer camp, tragically perished.
The torrential rainfall led to alarming river crests, with the Guadalupe River rising 26 feet in just 45 minutes in Kerrville and reaching 37.5 feet in Hunt, marking a historical peak for the town. The National Weather Service issued flood warnings for Kerr County starting at 1:14 a.m. on July 4, as conditions rapidly deteriorated. Residents reported the waters rose so quickly that entire houses were swept away within minutes. One resident near Big Sandy Creek noted that his brother’s house floated past his property after only 12 minutes.
Communities were hit hard, receiving over 10 inches of rain within an hour, which led to massive destruction, including substantial loss of homes and lives. Emergency responders were overwhelmed, with Travis County 911 receiving the first water rescue call at 12:23 a.m. on July 4 and responding to 36 additional rescue calls from 1:58 a.m. to 6:50 a.m. Of the 41 calls received, some were labeled as “abandoned,” meaning callers hung up before assistance could be provided.
Residents, including Jamie Hammonds and Melanie Strong, expressed frustration due to the lack of an initial emergency response, noting that community members stepped in to help their neighbors. Many homes in the affected areas now stand empty or completely destroyed, highlighting the extensive physical and emotional toll of the floods on the populace.
A report from the Insurance Fairness Project revealed that only 3% of homes in FEMA-designated flood zones in Kerr County had federal flood insurance, causing additional financial concerns for the victims. The disaster’s economic impact is estimated to range between $18 billion and $22 billion, with approximately 3,000 businesses damaged or destroyed.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has faced challenges in its response to the disaster, with reports of delays in approving flood claims—particularly in Kerr County, where the approval rate sits at an alarming low of 18%. Residents continue to express discontent with the inconsistencies in the emergency response capabilities during the crisis, as noted by local officials, including Leander Mayor Christine DeLisle.
In the meantime, community organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse are actively participating in recovery efforts, offering assistance with debris removal and other crucial needs for families affected by the floods. Furthermore, Airbnb.org has partnered with the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, providing free housing for more than 350 individuals displaced due to the flooding, funded by a $1.6 million grant.
Volunteers and local residents have taken proactive roles in ongoing recovery initiatives, many leveraging their skills in construction and debris clearance to assist their neighbors during this challenging time.
FAQ
What caused the floods in Central Texas in July 2025?
Central Texas experienced torrential rainfall from July 4 to 5, 2025, leading to uncontrollable floods impacting several counties.
How many fatalities resulted from the floods?
The floods resulted in at least 135 fatalities, including 71 adults and 31 children.
What is the estimated economic damage caused by the floods?
The disaster is estimated to have caused economic damages ranging from $18 billion to $22 billion.
What kind of insurance did homes in affected areas have?
A report revealed that only 3% of homes in FEMA-designated flood zones in Kerr County had federal flood insurance.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | July 4-5, 2025 |
| Affected Regions | Kerr, Burnet, Kendall, Gillespie, Tom Green, Travis |
| Total Fatalities | 135 (71 adults, 31 children) |
| Notable Casualties | 27 campers and counselors from Camp Mystic |
| Estimated Economic Damage | $18 billion to $22 billion |
| Flood Insurance Coverage | 3% of homes in FEMA-designated flood zones |
| Community Involvement | Local organizations and volunteers providing recovery assistance |
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Additional Resources
- Britannica
- Wikipedia: Central Texas floods of 2025
- Fox 26 Houston
- Google Search: Central Texas floods of 2025
- Airbnb News
- Google Scholar: Central Texas floods of 2025
- The New York Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Central Texas floods of 2025
- Spectrum Local News
- Google News: Central Texas floods of 2025
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