Deadly Floods Sweep Texas as Search and Rescue Operations Continue
July 5, 2025 — Catastrophic flooding across Central and East Texas has left at least 36 people confirmed dead and dozens more missing, including several girls from a summer camp near the Trinity River. Emergency crews are working around the clock to locate survivors as communities grapple with the aftermath of record-breaking rainfall and widespread devastation.
Unprecedented Rainfall Triggers Flash Floods
The National Weather Service reported that some areas received over 15 inches of rain in just 48 hours, causing rivers to breach their banks and sweeping away vehicles, homes, and infrastructure. The hardest-hit counties include Harris, Montgomery, and Polk, where floodwaters have inundated entire neighborhoods and forced thousands to evacuate.
Summer Camp Emergency: Children Missing After Flash Flood
Authorities confirmed that a group of girls attending a summer camp in Polk County remain unaccounted for after floodwaters overwhelmed their cabins late Thursday night. Rescue teams, aided by helicopters, boats, and drones, are scouring the area, focusing on the heavily wooded banks of the Trinity River. Families have gathered at nearby shelters, anxiously awaiting news amid ongoing search operations.
State Response and Federal Aid
Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a statewide disaster declaration early Friday, mobilizing the Texas National Guard and requesting federal emergency assistance. FEMA has deployed response teams and resources to the region. "This is one of the most devastating flood events in recent Texas history," state emergency management officials said in a statement.
Infrastructure Damage and Power Outages
Flooding has caused widespread power outages, with more than 250,000 residents still without electricity as of Saturday morning. Numerous highways remain closed, and public transit services have been suspended in several metropolitan areas. Officials are urging residents to avoid travel and heed evacuation orders as emergency crews continue to assess structural damage and clear debris.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
- More than 2,000 rescue operations have been conducted since Thursday.
- Local shelters are housing over 10,000 displaced residents.
- Volunteers and first responders from neighboring states have joined relief efforts.
The situation remains fluid, with additional rainfall forecast for the weekend. Authorities warn that further flooding and landslides are possible as the region braces for more severe weather. Residents are encouraged to monitor official alerts and avoid flooded areas.
For the latest updates on the Texas floods, stay tuned to the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies.
