HUNT, Texas — A beloved summer camp in the Texas Hill Country is at the center of tragic events following severe flooding that has left at least 20 children unaccounted for after heavy rains engulfed the area on Friday morning. Camp Mystic, a 99-year-old Christian summer camp, was hosting 750 campers when rising waters from the Guadalupe River created catastrophic conditions.

Established in 1926 along the banks of the river, Camp Mystic has long been a sanctuary for girls, emphasizing personal growth and self-esteem in a supportive Christian environment. Each year, the camp aims to foster lifelong friendships among its participants, challenging them to strive for their best selves in a wholesome atmosphere.

The recent flooding, which began around 4 a.m., swept through Kerr County and nearby regions with alarming swiftness, making evacuation orders nearly impossible. “The situation escalated very quickly, within a two-hour period that caught everyone off guard,” said Dalton Rice, city manager of Kerrville, the county seat. The rapid onset of the flooding rendered emergency preparations ineffective, leading to significant loss and fear.

As search and rescue operations commenced, officials reported that 24 individuals have lost their lives due to the flooding. Although names and identities are yet to be verified, concerned families have taken to social media, revealing communications with local authorities regarding their missing daughters. Camp officials reassured parents that if they had not received direct updates, their children are safe.

Dick and Tweety Eastland, who have operated Camp Mystic since 1974, have deep roots in the camp’s history, which has remained within the same family since the 1930s. In a statement to parents, the camp expressed its commitment to safety and pledged to provide updates as the situation evolves.

A video on the camp’s website showcases its picturesque campus, displaying joyous scenes of campers engaging in water activities, horseback riding, and tennis. However, the serene surroundings were transformed into chaos as torrential rains surged the river’s levels beyond expectations.

Officials continue to search for missing individuals and recover bodies from areas where vehicles were swept away upstream. As of Friday evening, the river had reached its peak in Kerrville and Comfort, but sections further downstream were still expected to swell into Saturday.

Amid this devastating crisis, the community remains hopeful, rallying together in support of the families affected. Local agencies are collaborating to provide aid and resources as they navigate the aftermath of this unprecedented natural disaster.