Texas Floods Leave 161 Missing as Recovery Efforts Intensify

In the aftermath of devastating floods in Texas, Governor Greg Abbott announced that at least 161 people remain missing in Kerr County, while search and rescue operations are ongoing. Over 250 responders are working tirelessly, as questions arise regarding flood warning adequacy. Meanwhile, neighboring New Mexico faces similar emergency conditions.

At least 161 individuals are unaccounted for in Kerr County, Texas, four days after severe flash floods wreaked havoc across the state, according to Governor Greg Abbott. As hope dwindles for finding survivors, the tragedy, which has claimed at least 109 lives, including 94 in the Kerrville area, is prompting widespread concern and urgent rescue efforts.

Among the missing are five campers and a counselor from Camp Mystic, a Christian all-girls summer camp located along the heavily affected Guadalupe River. Abbott stated that search and rescue teams will continue their efforts until every person is accounted for, cautioning that the number of missing may rise in the coming days. Residents have been urged to report anyone they believe is unaccounted for.

Search operations are being augmented by the Texas National Guard, which has deployed Chinook and Black Hawk helicopters, along with reaper drones, to aid in the search. Over 250 personnel from various agencies are dedicated to the rescue efforts in the Kerrville area, including agents from border patrol and the FBI.

Volunteers involved in the search have expressed astonishment at the extent of the destruction, with one rescue worker describing the task as akin to "finding a single hay in a haystack." Accessing certain areas has proven challenging due to the debris and devastation, making the recovery process arduous.

Questions have emerged regarding the adequacy of flood warnings and preparedness before the disaster struck. Governor Abbott defended the actions taken, stating that while officials were aware of potential flooding, they did not anticipate a "30-foot high tsunami wall of water." Inquiries about accountability for the high death toll have surfaced, with Abbott opting to focus on recovery rather than placing blame.

The catastrophic flooding has left many victims, particularly in Kerr County where the majority of fatalities occurred, struggling to cope. Survivors like Justin Brown recount the loss of their homes and the ongoing efforts to rebuild their lives following the disaster.

Separately, New Mexico is facing similar flash flood emergencies, with the National Weather Service warning residents of Ruidoso of imminent flooding threats. Quick rescue operations are in motion as houses are reportedly washed away, further complicating recovery efforts across state lines.

President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit the flood-affected areas on Friday to assess the situation and support recovery measures. As communities begin to face the aftermath, the urgency for aid and support grows ever more critical.