Violent flash floods caused by torrential rains have killed several people in Texas and New Jersey, with rescue crews scrambling to save people trapped in the midst of widespread destruction.
It rained heavily overnight in Texas, with as much as 10 inches (25 cm) of rain piling up in central Kerr County, overloading the Guadalupe River and causing it to overflow. The torrent claimed the lives of several people, according to a confirmation by Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly. Precise numbers are however not available as identification process continues. “Most of them, we don’t know who they are,” declared Kelly, adding that one victim was discovered with no clothes on and no identification.
Dozens of individuals have been rescued by boat, and emergency response continues with an unspecified number still missing. The area, which includes riverfront communities, wildlife habitats, and campgrounds, experienced water levels overflow perilously. In search of Hunt, where the Guadalupe River divides, levels rose 22 feet in two hours. The river gauge broke after reaching 29.5 feet, indicating higher levels.
Kelly acknowledged that the county had no proper flood warning system. “This is the most hazardous river valley in the United States,” he said. Texas Governor Greg Abbott promised residents that state resources were being mobilized to assist.
In the meantime, in New Jersey, three were killed from extreme thunderstorms. Two men, 79 and 25 years old, died in Plainfield when a tree had crashed on their car amid the storm. Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp lamented the incident, calling the incident a “sober reminder of nature’s power.”
The city postponed its Fourth of July celebrations to concentrate on clean-up efforts. Hail, toppled trees, and skidding cars contributed to the disruption elsewhere in southern New England.
Forecasters warn that flash floods will develop quickly without warning. “You won’t know how bad it is until it’s right on top of you,” warned NWS forecaster Bob Fogarty.
