Update:  As of July 5th, 7:00 pm, hundrends of first responders are still on the ground, air and water in the process of search and rescue.  Authorities have recovered 43 deceased in Kerr County, including 28 adults and 15 children.  Twelve adults are pending identification, and 5 children are also pending identification.

Original Post:

A local state of disaster has been declared in Kerr County following extreme and life-threatening flooding caused by heavy rains that began on Thursday, July 3, and continued into the early hours of Friday, July 4.

Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly signed the emergency declaration, citing widespread and severe damage, injuries, and loss of life. The declaration notes that the flooding poses an ongoing and imminent threat to residents, prompting extraordinary response measures.

The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed multiple fatalities, though further details are pending notification of next of kin. Emergency crews remain active across the county, responding to numerous calls and conducting rescues.

The Guadalupe River has reportedly crested at over 39 feet—exceeding flood levels from the county’s second-largest flood in modern history in 1987. Numerous roads have been closed, and households along the river have been evacuated. Louise Hays Park is under water, forcing the cancellation of the community’s “Fourth on the River” celebration.

Residents near creeks, streams, and the Guadalupe River are urged to move to higher ground immediately. The sheriff’s office has advised all citizens to shelter in place and avoid travel.

A shelter has been established at First United Methodist Church, located at 321 Thompson Drive, for those displaced by the flooding. The Kerrville Fire Department is monitoring nursing homes, where residents are currently sheltering in place.

Those with displaced pets may contact Kerrville Pets Alive! at 830-200-0539 or email info@kerrvillepetsalive.org. Owners of large animals will be directed to the appropriate authorities.

The declaration, which activates the Kerr County Emergency Management Plan, will remain in effect for up to seven days unless extended by the Kerr County Commissioners’ Court.

Donations to aid recovery efforts can be made through the American Red Cross. Damage estimates to public infrastructure and private property will be assessed once floodwaters recede.