List of Missing in Texas Floods Adds Uncertainty to Search for Survivors | New India Abroad

 

Six days after devastating flash floods tore through Texas Hill Country, more than 160 people remain unaccounted for, with 120 confirmed dead as of July 10. Thousands of first responders are combing through debris in Kerr County, the epicenter of the disaster. Among the dead are 36 children, including 27 campers and staff from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp. Five girls and one counselor from the camp are still missing.

Disaster experts caution that the actual number of missing people may be inflated due to communication breakdowns. In past disasters, such as the 2018 California wildfires and the 2023 Lahaina fire, initial missing persons lists ballooned far beyond the final death tolls. Many people were later found safe but had no means to contact their families.

"This list will change," said Josh Dozor, former FEMA official. “People may not know they’re reported missing. Power outages, shelter relocation, and cell network issues all contribute to the confusion.”

Kerr County, situated in the region ominously known as Flash Flood Alley, received over a foot of rain within an hour early on July 4. The Guadalupe River surged from one to 34 feet, obliterating homes, trees, and camps in its path. No new survivors have been found since the floodwaters struck.

On July 9, hundreds gathered at Tivy High School in Kerrville to honor the victims. Emotions ran high as families, teachers, and students remembered lost loved ones, including Coach Reece Zunker and his wife Paula, both among the deceased. Their children remain missing.

The state legislature is preparing a special session to investigate the disaster response and allocate funding. Meanwhile, federal authorities have pledged $15 million in relief to affected areas.

New India Abroad will continue to monitor developments as search efforts and investigations continue.