At least 24 persons lost their lives due to a severe flash flood in central Texas on Friday, and over 20 girls from a Christian summer camp are still unaccounted for.
The missing girls are from Camp Mystic, one of about 18 camps situated along the Guadalupe River that have been in contact with authorities since the incident, as reported by CNN.
All other camp attendees have been located.
Reports revealed the extensive devastation caused by the torrential rains, which uprooted trees, overturned vehicles, and scattered large debris across the landscape.
Certain areas in central Texas experienced a month’s worth of rainfall within just a few hours, resulting in catastrophic destruction.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster for 15 counties on Friday, to ensure that affected regions have unlimited access to all resources, strategies, and personnel that the state of Texas can offer.
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He also shared a video of ongoing rescue operations, stating that efforts will continue until everyone is located.
However, Melania Trump, following her festive 4th of July celebration, expressed her condolences on social media, saying: “My heart goes out to the parents in Texas during this difficult time.
“I am holding you in my thoughts and sending prayers for strength, comfort, and resilience.”
Rescue teams worked through the night and have continued to search the area for survivors.
So far, more than 230 people have been rescued, most of them by helicopter.