A Wake-Up Call from the River: Catastrophic Flooding in Texas and a Devastating Loss at Camp Mystic

Cheryl Nelson
Jul 8
4 min read

Updated: Jul 9

Over the July 4th weekend, what should’ve been a joyful time in the Texas Hill Country turned into an unimaginable nightmare. Relentless rain triggered catastrophic flash flooding along the Guadalupe River, transforming peaceful summer nights into a deadly disaster zone.

One of the hardest-hit locations was Camp Mystic, a beloved girls’ camp in Hunt, Texas, where rising floodwaters engulfed cabins with terrifying speed. At least 27 campers and staff lost their lives—including longtime camp director, Dick Eastland, who reportedly gave his life trying to protect the girls in his care. His bravery will not be forgotten.

As a preparedness educator, meteorologist, and fellow human being, this story shakes me to my core. Because what happened in Texas could happen anywhere. And we all need to be ready.

What Happened: A Perfect (and Tragic) Storm

A stalled upper-level weather system over Central Texas combined with deep tropical moisture associated with the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry, creating conditions ripe for disaster. Thunderstorms repeatedly trained over the same area, dumping 10 to 16 inches of rain in under 12 hours, with some locations seeing totals over 18 inches.

Here’s what made things worse: the ground in south-central Texas was already parched from a drought. You might think dry ground would soak up rain, but after prolonged dryness, soil becomes compacted and hydrophobic -- meaning it actually repels water (acting like pavement would). That caused rain to run off instantly, funneling into creeks and rivers with explosive speed.

In Hunt, Texas, the Guadalupe River rose from around 5 feet to over 26 feet in just 45 minutes -- a staggering surge confirmed by NOAA river gauges.

When a river rises that fast -- especially while people are asleep -- the consequences are often tragic.

Why Central Texas? Welcome to Flash Flood Alley

This part of Central Texas is located in what meteorologists call “Flash Flood Alley” -- and for good reason:

• Steep hill country topography funnels runoff rapidly.

• Clay and limestone-rich soil can’t absorb water efficiently -- even without drought.

• Narrow rivers and creeks swell with little warning.

• Add to that increased development, and water has fewer places to go.

This makes the region one of the most flood-prone areas in North America.

The Danger Came in the Dark

This flood happened overnight -- around 4 to 5 a.m. -- when most people were asleep. Nighttime disasters are particularly dangerous. People don’t see the water coming. Phone alerts may be silenced. Some may wake up confused and unsure of what action to take.

In situations like this, every second matters. And without a clear plan or warning system, precious time is lost.

What Do Flood Alerts Really Mean?

Understanding the language used in emergency weather alerts can make all the difference. Here’s what the National Weather Service means when it issues these alerts:

• Flood Watch - Be Prepared

Conditions are favorable for flooding. Stay alert and monitor forecasts.

• Flood Advisory - Take Action for nuisance-type flooding

(Impacts not bad enough for warning issuance).

• Flood Warning - Take Action

Flooding is either happening or imminent. Move to higher ground if needed.

• Flash Flood Warning - Move Now

Flash flooding is either occurring or about to occur. Get to safety immediately.

• Flash Flood Emergency - Catastrophic, Life-Threatening Danger

The highest-level flood alert, used only in the most extreme situations -- like what we saw in the Hill Country.

Don’t Rely on Cell Phones Alone

During emergencies, cell service can fail -- especially in rural areas like Hunt. Storms can knock out towers. Batteries die. Phones may be silenced or left in another room.

That’s why I strongly recommend owning a NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup or hand-crank power. These devices receive direct alerts from the National Weather Service via its own frequency -- even if the power is out or your phone has no signal.

You can find portable models that are perfect for:

• Camping

• Boating

• Hiking

• RV trips

• Golfing

• Emergency kits and go-bags

If you run a camp, school, hotel, or vacation rental, this isn’t optional -- it’s essential. Families should keep one at home and carry one when traveling.

How You Can Prepare -- Today

Whether you’re a parent, traveler, business owner, or simply someone who wants to stay safe, these steps matter:

Know your flood risk

Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to assess your home, travel, or camp location -- even if you’re not in a designated flood zone.

Enable emergency alerts

Go to your phone settings and make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts are turned on.

Own and test a NOAA Weather Radio

Make sure it has fresh batteries or a crank/solar backup, and keep it nearby -- especially when sleeping or camping.

Learn more about Midland NOAA Weather Radios

Have a family evacuation plan

Know multiple escape routes. Keep a go-bag packed. Teach kids what to do if the water rises.

Ask smart questions

If your child is away at camp or school, ask:

• How are weather alerts received?

• Who makes evacuation decisions?

• Are staff trained for flash flood response?

These are smart, responsible questions that every parent should feel empowered to ask.

Honoring the Lives Lost with Action

To those grieving at Camp Mystic and across Central Texas: your loss is beyond words. And while nothing can undo the heartbreak, we can choose to honor your loved ones through action and awareness.

Preparedness is not panic -- it’s peace of mind. It’s empowerment. It’s love in motion.