Texas — Emergency crews and volunteers are intensifying the search for several missing children in southeastern Texas after historic flooding ravaged the region this week, pushing the confirmed death toll to 43 as of Saturday morning.
The deluge began late Tuesday, July 2, when remnants of Tropical Storm Debra stalled over the Houston metropolitan area and surrounding counties. According to the National Weather Service, several communities received more than 20 inches of rain in less than 48 hours, overwhelming levees and drainage infrastructure across Harris, Liberty, and Chambers counties.
Ongoing Search for Missing Children
Authorities confirmed that at least eight children remain unaccounted for in the aftermath of the floods, with most reported missing from neighborhoods along the Trinity and San Jacinto Rivers. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and local law enforcement agencies have mobilized search and rescue teams, deploying helicopters, boats, and search dogs to comb through submerged areas and debris fields.
"Our top priority is to locate the missing children and reunite families," said a DPS spokesperson. "We urge the public to report any information that could aid rescue efforts."
Rising Death Toll and Widespread Damage
The state’s Office of Emergency Management reported Saturday that the confirmed death toll from the floods rose to 43, with dozens more injured. Most fatalities resulted from swift water incidents, vehicle submersions, and collapsed structures. Emergency officials warn that the toll may rise further as floodwaters recede and more areas become accessible.
Over 20,000 residents have been displaced, and hundreds of homes are either destroyed or severely damaged. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has already approved disaster declarations for the hardest-hit counties, providing emergency shelter, medical aid, and financial assistance to affected residents.
Infrastructure and Recovery Efforts
Major highways, including portions of Interstate 10 and U.S. Route 59, remain closed due to flooding and structural damage. Power outages persist in parts of Houston and surrounding cities, with utility crews working around the clock to restore service. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is monitoring local dams and levees for potential breaches as water levels remain high.
- Texas National Guard has deployed over 1,000 personnel for rescue and relief operations
- Red Cross has set up emergency shelters in Houston, Baytown, and Beaumont
- State officials urge residents to avoid flooded areas and follow evacuation orders
Governor Greg Abbott has pledged full state support for ongoing rescue and recovery efforts, emphasizing the need for patience and unity as communities confront the disaster’s aftermath. Weather forecasters predict scattered thunderstorms through the weekend, which could hamper search operations and delay recovery timelines.
Families seeking information on missing loved ones are encouraged to contact the Texas Missing Persons Hotline at 1-800-346-3243 or visit the state’s disaster response website for updates.
