Kerrville's July 4th Flood: A Community in Crisis

Heavy rains lead to dangerous flooding, disaster declared, and at least six lives lost.

The Challenge

Kerrville faced a severe challenge on July 4th as heavy rains led to dangerous flooding. The situation was so serious that the mayor had to declare a disaster. Sadly, at least six people lost their lives. The rain was intense, with 5 to 10 inches falling before dawn. This caused the Guadalupe River to rise quickly, reaching one of its highest levels ever recorded.

Warnings and Evacuations

The National Weather Service warned that the flooding was life-threatening. One death was confirmed at Louise Hays Park, where a holiday celebration had to be canceled. The sheriff's office received many calls for help due to high water. They urged people to stay safe and avoid traveling. Residents near rivers and creeks were told to move to higher ground immediately.

Impact on Infrastructure

Power outages affected 5,000 customers in Kerr County. Nearby Bandera County also experienced flooding, with several roads closed due to high water. The weather service warned that this was a very dangerous situation. Many streets in Kerrville were closed, including parts of Thompson Drive and Guadalupe Street.

Community Response

The community came together to help. Shelters were set up for those affected by the flood. The sheriff's office worked with local and state agencies to respond to the crisis. Despite the challenges, the spirit of the community remained strong.