Over 80 people have been killed, including 28 children, as the deadly flood continues to devastate Texas, officials said, while over 40 people are missing, including children and staff members from Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp, as per the Associated Press. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, over 850 people have been rescued so far.
The deluge turned catastrophic early Friday, when torrential rain hit central Texas. Rescue workers have been deployed along with helicopters, boats, drones, and heavy machinery to search the flood zone and help the stranded people.
However, the situation is still dangerous across places. Flash flood watches are still in effect across central Texas. Authorities have urged residents to stay alert and follow emergency instructions closely.
As per media reports, the National Weather Service had issued warnings the day before, including rare 'flash flood emergencies' early Friday morning, which warned of life-threatening situations and imminent danger.
Trump To Visit Texas On Friday
Taking cognisance of the situation, US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he planned to visit Texas later this week.
"Probably on Friday. We wanted to leave a little time. I would've done it today, but we'd just be in their way — probably Friday," he told reporters when asked about visiting the affected area.
Calling the floods "a horrible thing that took place," Trump also signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County. This move allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to begin helping people affected by the disaster.