Flood drama in Texas: At least 13 dead and children missing!

Flood drama in Texas: At least 13 dead and children missing!

Devastating floods have resulted in at least 13 deaths in Texas, USA. The disaster struck on Friday morning when heavy rains hit the region, raising the level of the Guadalupe River by eight meters in just 45 minutes. The heavy rainfall and rapidly developing flash floods have dramatically worsened the situation. Both adults and children are among the dead, while more than 20 girls from a riverside summer camp are missing. These girls may have taken refuge in trees to safety as communications are currently interrupted in the affected area and residents are asked to seek higher ground.

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick had initially said there were 6 to 10 confirmed deaths, but Sheriff Larry L. Leitha increased that number to 13, and there are fears more deaths could be added. Some of the bodies were discovered in cars washed away. Around 500 rescue workers and 14 helicopters are being deployed to find the missing people and deal with the situation, including the Texas National Guard and the US Coast Guard. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has also requested assistance, while Gov. Greg Abbott has assured search and rescue operations will continue tirelessly.

Dangerous river valley and unexpected floods

The Guadalupe River region is known for its summer camps, which are particularly popular during the Independence Day long weekend. Texas Public Safety Director Freeman Martin has warned of the possibility of “another wave of flooding” as floods in the region are considered the most dangerous flash floods in the United States. Rob Kelly, the county's chief administrative officer, described the situation as "extremely devastating and deadly." However, despite historical notoriety for flash flooding, this event was unexpected.

The frequency of flood events is a global phenomenon. According to Statista, floods are the most common natural disasters worldwide and have caused almost 37 percent of all catastrophic events since 2000. A key factor in the increase in such catastrophic weather conditions is climate change, which is leading to more frequent heavy rain events.

In the United States, recent flood events make it clear that even regions considered to be at risk can be severely affected by sudden and extreme weather events. Local authorities as well as national organizations must therefore take effective measures to better protect the population and infrastructure and to be better prepared for future events.