The Texas Floods

This July 4 weekend, Central Texas was devastated by sudden flash floods that rapidly transformed peaceful rivers into deadly torrents. Between July 4 and 7, rainfall exceeded 20 inches in some areas, causing the Guadalupe River to surge over 35 feet in Kerrville and Hunt. The deluge claimed the lives of at least 120 people, including many children from Camp Mystic, and left more than 170 still missing, especially in Kerr County.

Flooding of this magnitude reshaped not only the landscape, but the lives of countless families and communities. Some lost homes, beloved institutions like the century‑old Hunt Store Rock Café, and the security they counted on. And far too many lost their lives. The kind of grief an event like this creates will live far beyond the point that the rest of the country as moved on. Lives have been permanently changed, and some may never recover their missing loved ones.

Yet in the shadow of tragedy, strength emerges. Volunteers, neighbors, and local nonprofits are rushing toward Kerr County to serve meals, help clean, and support survivors. Organizations like World Central Kitchen, and Mercy Chefs have become lifelines, offering food and essential supplies, while local restaurants and breweries serve as collection and fundraising centers (Eater Austin).

Why empathy matters, and help is still urgently needed

• Human lives have been shattered: Families are mourning sudden loss, searching for loved ones still missing, grappling with shock, trauma, and uncertainty.

• Small towns struggle: Local businesses that bring character and livelihoods are damaged or gone. The broader economic impact is estimated at $18–22 billion, imperiling the region’s recovery and future (San Antonio Express News).

• Warning systems failed: A firefighter requested a mass alert at 4:22 a.m. on July 4, but firefighters and residents didn’t receive public warnings until nearly six hours later, a tragic breakdown that has galvanized urgent calls for legislative reforms, including siren installations across flood‑prone areas (My San Antonio).

How you can step forward today

We invite you to read the NASW‑TX statement, which offers direct links and resources for helping survivors rebuild: including donation platforms, community support campaigns, and ways to volunteer or advocate locally. Please consider doing one or more of the following:

• Give to trusted organizations aiding relief and long‑term recovery.

• Support local business relief funds (ex. through Kerrville chamber or community GoFundMe efforts).

• Share verified resources and correct misinformation, such as false claims about cloud seeding causing the floods. Experts confirm natural weather patterns were fully responsible (AP News).

• Advocate for long‑term safety upgrades, like flood warning sirens and stricter flood‑plain development laws.

• Participate or organize community vigils, meal drives, or supply collections. Every gesture brings healing.

When water rose without warning, lives were washed away overnight. But as survivors and communities gather, their resilience fuels hope. Your empathy and action today can mean shelter for a family, aid for a business, or momentum for policy change. Together, we can take meaningful action, and maybe even help save a life.