Emily Herr

By Emily Herr

The Scoop Digital Newspaper: July 2025

HUNT, Texas (July 5, 2025) – As the Texas Hill Country grapples with the aftermath of a catastrophic flash flood, a frantic search is underway for dozens of girls who remain missing from Camp Mystic, a historic Christian summer camp located on the banks of the Guadalupe River. The camp, a cherished summer destination for generations of girls, was unexpectedly and severely impacted by floodwaters that surged with unprecedented speed in the early hours of Friday, July 4th.

Reports indicate that at least 27 girls from the camp are still unaccounted for, though officials have stated the exact number of missing persons across the entire affected area is difficult to ascertain and constantly changing. Camp Mystic was hosting approximately 750 girls, aged roughly 7 to 17, when the “deadly flood wave” struck.

Survivors and emergency responders describe a scene of chaos and terror as the Guadalupe River rose an astonishing 26 feet in just 45 minutes, with a nearby gauge failing after recording a nearly 30-foot rise. This rapid inundation left little to no time for warnings or evacuations for many in the low-lying areas, including portions of Camp Mystic. The sudden deluge, fueled by over 10 inches of rain in central Kerr County overnight, caught residents and camp staff by surprise.

Thirteen-year-old Elinor Lester, a camper who survived the ordeal, recounted the horror: “The camp was completely destroyed. A helicopter landed and started taking people away. It was really scary.” Rescuers reportedly used ropes to guide children across a flooded bridge as the water whipped around their legs.

Families of the missing girls have taken to social media, desperately posting photos and appeals for information. Reunification centers have seen tearful reunions, but many parents are still waiting for news of their daughters. While Camp Mystic sent an email to parents stating that those whose daughters were missing would be personally contacted, communication breakdowns due to washed-out roads and power outages have complicated efforts.

Search and rescue operations are ongoing with hundreds of personnel on the ground, utilizing helicopters, boats, and drones to comb through the debris-strewn areas along the Guadalupe River. Texas Governor Greg Abbott and U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem have both visited the devastated region, pledging full state and federal resources for the search and recovery.

The incident at Camp Mystic highlights the particular vulnerability of the Texas Hill Country to flash floods, a region often referred to as “flash flood alley” due to its geological features. As the search continues, the community holds onto hope for the safe return of every missing girl, even as the confirmed death toll from the wider flood event continues to rise.

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The Scoop Digital Newspaper
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