Texas flooding death toll rises to 50

The death toll from the catastrophic flooding in the US state of Texas has risen to at least 50, with four fatalities reported in Travis County alone, local authorities confirmed on Saturday night.

The highest number of casualties occurred in Kerr County, where 43 people lost their lives. In Burnet County, an additional three deaths have been reported.

In response to the worsening situation, Governor Greg Abbott signed a comprehensive disaster declaration on Saturday that now includes Travis County, which is located approximately 130 miles northeast of Kerr County.

Urging residents to stay alert, local authorities posted on social media:
“Be cautious. Avoid flooded roads. With rain continuing, please be extremely careful if you must go outside.”

Andy Brown, Chief Judge of Travis County, also warned residents:
“Avoid flooded roads, follow official warnings, and do not attempt to return to affected areas until authorities declare them safe.”

He further stated that Travis County’s Emergency Management Department is continuing rescue operations to ensure assistance reaches those affected by the disaster.

The flooding began after heavy rainfall started Thursday morning across central and southern Texas, intensifying throughout the day and turning into a torrential downpour by evening. The relentless rain caused flash floods along both banks of the Guadalupe River.

At a press conference, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said,
“Within just 45 minutes, the water level of the Guadalupe River rose by 26 feet, triggering this devastating flood.”