Flash Flood Warning Issued: Map Reveals Impact Zones—Find Out If You’re in Danger and How to Stay Safe

Central Texas remains in crisis after the National Weather Service (NWS) issued an overnight “particularly dangerous situation” flash-flood warning for Kerr County, where at least 24 people have died and as many as 25 campers are still missing along the Guadalupe River. Governor Greg Abbott has signed an emergency disaster declaration covering 15 counties; more than 500 first-responders, 14 helicopters and multiple swift-water teams are searching flooded roads, washed-out campgrounds and neighborhoods shattered by up to 10 inches of rain in less than six hours. Why the alert matters A flash flood warning means flooding is imminent or already occurring; residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas must move immediately to higher ground, according to the NWS definition. Unlike river floods that rise slowly, flash floods can turn roads into rivers within minutes, sweeping away vehicles, power poles and entire buildings. Key impacts so far • Camp Mystic, a nearly century-old girls’ summer camp, reported “catastrophic level floods” and no power or water as rescuers ferried stranded children to reunification centers. • The Texas National Guard has completed 237 aerial and boat rescues, while road closures hamper ground access to Hunt, Ingram and Kerrville. • Canyon Dam engineers say the structure is stable, easing fears of a secondary flood wave. Rainfall outlook Meteorologists warn that even minor showers today could trigger additional flash floods because soils are saturated and gauges show rivers still above major-flood stage. How to stay safe when a flash flood warning is issued • Turn Around, Don’t Drown: never drive through water that covers road markings. • Move to the highest floor—not the attic—if water enters your home. • Keep phones charged; have a battery-powered NOAA weather radio for updates. • Pack a “go bag” with prescriptions, identification, cash and a flashlight. • After waters recede, watch for downed power lines, displaced wildlife and structural damage before re-entering buildings. Insurance & recovery resources FEMA urges affected homeowners to photograph damage before cleanup and file claims at disasterassistance.gov; renters may qualify for temporary housing aid. Local shelters remain open at Calvary Temple Church, Schreiner University Event Center and Comfort High School. Looking ahead With tropical moisture lingering over the Hill Country, additional flash-flood warnings are possible through the July 4 weekend. Residents should enable Wireless Emergency Alerts and follow @NWSSanAngelo and local emergency management for real-time updates.