News Summary
Severe flooding in Texas has led to the tragic loss of over 120 lives, with many still unaccounted for. As search efforts persist, authorities are grappling with the aftermath of one of the deadliest flood events in U.S. history, particularly affecting children. The community unites to assist those impacted, while Candlelight vigils are organized to honor the victims. Recovery efforts are ongoing as Texas assesses damages and offers aid to residents.
Leander, Texas – Catastrophic flooding in Texas has led to the loss of over 120 lives, with multiple counties facing severe devastation. As search efforts continue, authorities have reported three confirmed fatalities in Williamson County alone, including the identification of 74-year-old Jay Dunn, who is currently listed as missing following a coordinated search by the Leander Fire Department.
As of Thursday morning, 121 individuals have perished due to the swelling of the Guadalupe River, which has overflowed its banks, causing widespread destruction. Many victims were caught off guard while they slept as floodwaters rapidly rose. Among those affected are campers from a nearby Christian summer camp, with casualties reported spanning various age groups, making this one of the deadliest flood events for children in U.S. history.
In total, 161 individuals remain unaccounted for in Kerr County, including those visiting family and attendees of the summer camp. The heart-wrenching stories of the victims continue to emerge, showcasing their deep ties to the community. Tributes from family and friends paint a picture of vibrant lives lost, such as a cherished high school teacher and two young sisters who have been remembered fondly by their aunt. The spectrum of victims includes teenagers, a police officer camping with family, and many others whose absence leaves a profound impact on their communities.
In response to the disaster, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has requested that additional counties, including Travis and Williamson, be included in President Trump’s Major Disaster Declaration to facilitate recovery efforts. Travis County officials have confirmed that eight bodies have been recovered, with four individuals still missing; six of those found have been identified, five of whom were from Leander.
To assist affected residents, a Flood Resource Recovery Center has been established in Leander, providing crucial services such as meals, showers, and cleaning supplies. Numerous neighborhoods remain heavily impacted, experiencing road closures and ongoing cleanup efforts as community officials work diligently to assess damage and support residents.
Burnet County authorities have reported five deaths, including that of 17-year-old Malaya Hammond, who tragically lost her life attempting to rescue her family from rising waters. Additionally, Fire Chief Michael Phillips from Burnet County remains missing, having been swept away while fulfilling his duties during the flooding.
In Williamson County, officials have created dedicated web pages for reporting damage and volunteer opportunities, engaging the community to aid in recovery efforts. As the situation unfolds, candlelight vigils are being organized to honor those affected by the floods and to offer solace to grieving families.
The combination of unprecedented levels of rain and capable flooding has challenged local authorities and residents alike. With recovery efforts underway, the focus now shifts towards rebuilding lives and communities in the aftermath of this devastating event. Texas is assessing the full extent of the damage while striving to provide necessary resources and assistance to those in need.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Leander Family’s Harrowing Experience Amid Central Texas Flooding
Georgetown, Texas Unites for Flood Relief
Heartfelt Community Efforts Following Tragic Texas Floods
Search Efforts Continue for Missing Resident Amid Flooding
Leander, Texas: A Tragic Loss in Flooding
Catastrophic Flooding Hits Central Texas
H-E-B Distributes Disaster Relief Kits in Leander, Texas
Georgetown Community Unites for Flood Recovery Efforts
Georgetown Faces Flash Flooding Challenges
Flash Floods Devastate Kerr County, Texas
Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News: Leander Resource Center for Flood Victims
- Wikipedia: Texas Floods
- New York Times: Texas Flood Victims
- Google Search: Texas Flood 2025 Recovery
- FOX 7 Austin: HEB Community Flood Recovery Support
- Google Scholar: 2025 Texas Flooding Impact
- CBS Austin: Sandy Creek Flooding Recovery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Central Texas Floods
- KXAN: Leander Woman Survives Floods
- Google News: Leander Flood Survivor
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
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