Devastating Storm Surge Hits Christian Summer Camp in Texas
A powerful storm surge swept through a Christian summer camp in Texas, causing catastrophic damage and resulting in the tragic loss of at least four children. The aftermath of the disaster reveals a scene of utter devastation, with crumbled walls, overturned furniture, and personal belongings scattered throughout the facility.
Photos from inside Camp Mystic show the extent of the destruction, including the mess hall that was completely destroyed. Outside the cafeteria, white dishes and bottled sodas lie on the ground near a large gaping hole in the building’s side. The images are a stark reminder of the sudden and violent nature of the floodwaters that overwhelmed the area.
Inside one of the bunks, pink and purple bedding, towels, backpacks, luggage, and clothing are seen scattered across the floor, all coated in mud. The beds and furniture have been rearranged or completely upended, with electrical cords tangled in chaotic fashion. A stuffed animal, covered in dirt and debris, is seen lying on a set of steps, next to a tattered and twisted shirt. These heartbreaking images capture the chaos and despair that followed the storm.
A line of dirt along the walls and doors highlights the terrifying height the water reached inside the camp buildings. Some of the girls, as young as 7 years old, were sleeping when the river surged through their rooms. In some cases, the water level appears to have risen higher than the doors of the buildings, leaving no time for escape.
So far, officials have recovered the bodies of 27 people, including several campers who were swept away by the floodwaters. Among the victims from Camp Mystic are Renee Smajstrla, 8; Sarah Marsh, 8; Janie Hunt, 9; and Lila Bonner. In total, nine children were among the dead in the region.
During the search and rescue missions, at least 858 people were rescued, with eight of them sustaining injuries. The 99-year-old facility serves more than 750 girls between the ages of 7 and 17, operating two sites alongside the Guadalupe River. One of the sites is located on higher ground, offering some protection from potential flooding.
The Guadalupe River, where Camp Mystic is situated in the San Antonio suburb of Hunt, rose an astonishing 26 feet in just 45 minutes, according to Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. This level of flooding has not been seen in the area since 1987. A flood alert was issued at 4 a.m., when most residents were still asleep, leaving little time to react to the rapidly rising waters.
The tragedy has left the community in shock and mourning, as families and friends grapple with the loss of loved ones. The destruction at Camp Mystic serves as a sobering reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness in the face of such disasters. As recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on supporting those affected and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent future tragedies.
