Devastating Flash Floods Hit Texas and New Mexico

At least 150 people are still missing in Kerr County, Texas, five days after devastating flash floods hit the state, resulting in at least 119 deaths. The missing include five campers and a counselor from a Christian summer camp. Search and rescue efforts continue with the help of helicopters, drones, and responders from various agencies. Neighboring New Mexico also experienced flash flooding, causing at least three deaths. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has vowed to continue search efforts until every missing person is found.

At least three people, including a man and two children, have died in flash flooding in Ruidoso, New Mexico, after heavy rainfall caused the Ruidoso river to rise to historic levels. The flooding occurred after wildfires in June 2024 left the soil water-repellent, increasing the risk of flash flooding. Emergency crews carried out over 50 swift water rescues, and a hotline was set up for people searching for missing family members. The disaster comes after severe flooding in neighboring Texas, which has left at least 111 people dead and 161 missing.

The New York Times analyzed federal data and found that 19 cabins at Camp Mystic, a Texas youth camp where 27 people died in a flood, were located in designated flood zones, including some in an 'extremely hazardous' floodway. Despite knowing the flood risks, the camp expanded in 2019, building new cabins in another flood-risk area instead of relocating the existing ones. Experts warn that construction in floodways is highly discouraged, especially for camps housing children. The camp had a history of flood-related incidents, and officials had discussed improving the river warning system, but it stagnated due to lack of funding.