Summary
Heavy rain caused severe flooding along the Guadalupe River in central Texas, resulting in at least 78 deaths, primarily in Kerr County. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued flood warnings, but many were still caught off-guard by the storm's intensity, leading to disagreements between the NWS and Texas officials about the accuracy of the forecasts.
Key Facts
- Flooding along the Guadalupe River in Texas led to at least 78 deaths.
- Most fatalities occurred in Kerr County, with 68 deaths reported.
- Texas officials and the National Weather Service disagree on the accuracy of the storm forecasts.
- The NWS issued flood watches and flash flood warnings on Thursday, before the flooding.
- The Guadalupe River’s water level rose by 26 feet in 45 minutes.
- Search and rescue operations were needed to save hundreds of stranded people.
- The NWS stated that predicting precise rainfall locations is challenging.
- A flash flood emergency was declared for parts of Kerr County early Friday morning.
