In the neighborhoods of Dallas, Houston, and Austin, parents have been attending vigils and seeking updates after a flood affected Camp Mystic in the Texas Hill Country. As of Saturday evening, more than a day and a half after the Guadalupe River overflowed, 27 girls from the Christian camp remained missing.
The situation has caused distress within the Camp Mystic community, which has historical ties to prominent Texas families. Early reports of flooding prompted a swift response from parents, who received a brief email from the camp indicating that those not accounted for had been notified.
Approximately 750 girls were attending the camp during the current session, according to Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. Many campers stranded on the campgrounds have begun to share their experiences of the severe weather.
One mother recounted how her 10-year-old daughter was rescued after being kept safe in her cabin during the storm. Despite the chaos, the child maintained her spirit, singing camp songs upon reuniting with her family.
Another parent, who chose to remain anonymous, described the anxious wait at a reunification center, where she eventually spoke to her daughter by phone before seeing her in person. The daughter shared her harrowing experience of navigating through the floodwaters.
Among the rescued were the daughters of a Texas representative, who expressed sorrow for the families affected while holding onto hope for survivors. Camp Mystic, known for its blend of traditional and modern activities, has fostered strong bonds among its alumni.
During a news conference, state officials praised rescue workers but did not provide updates on the missing girls. In the absence of information, many connected to the camp have been sharing messages of support and prayers.
Authorities have established a dedicated phone line for parents of the missing, urging them not to visit locations such as funeral homes in search of information. The camp, which has been operated by the same family for three generations, has been a significant part of many lives, with alumni planning to celebrate its 100th anniversary next spring.
Tragedy has struck the camp, where the river, once a source of joy, has turned into a site of devastation. Alumni reflect on their cherished memories, grappling with the stark contrast between the camp's joyful past and the current crisis.