Guadalupe River flooding struck Kerrville, Texas, on July 4, 2025. Heavy overnight rain pushed the river to dangerous levels. Streets, homes, and camps were hit hard. Local officials confirmed several deaths.
Emergency crews rescued dozens. The city canceled all holiday celebrations. Roads closed. Shelters opened. This flood is one of the worst Kerrville has seen in years.
Torrential Rain Triggers Guadalupe River Flooding
Rainfall started late on July 3 and continued into the early hours of July 4. The Hill Country region received five to ten inches in just a few hours. In some spots, it was even more. Guadalupe River flooding followed quickly. The river near Hunt rose to over 30 feet. That’s the second-highest level ever recorded in the area.
Flash flood warnings were issued. The National Weather Service called the flooding “life-threatening.” Residents were told to evacuate or stay on higher ground. Some didn’t get a chance. Waters came fast and strong, sweeping through riverfront neighborhoods.
Emergency Declared in Kerrville
Local officials acted fast. Kerrville’s mayor and Kerr County declared a disaster. First responders rushed into flooded areas. Swift water teams pulled people from rooftops. RV parks and campgrounds were hit first. Many had to flee in the dark with little warning.
By mid-morning, shelters opened across the region. Comfort High School welcomed evacuees. First United Methodist Church in Kerrville opened its doors. A Walmart parking lot served as a meeting point for families trying to reconnect.
Guadalupe River flooding forced closures of major roads. Arcadia Loop, Thompson Drive, and Guadalupe Street were underwater. Police and emergency workers blocked access. Downed trees and power outages made travel more dangerous.
Fatalities Confirmed
Kerr County confirmed at least six deaths from the flooding. Search and rescue operations are ongoing. Officials said that more fatalities could be found as the waters recede. Families have been notified. Names have not yet been released.
The sheriff’s office warned people not to return to flooded areas. They said debris, fast currents, and hidden hazards remain. First responders are still checking damaged homes and low-lying properties.
Summer Camps Suffer Severe Damage
Several summer camps were directly in the flood path. Guadalupe River flooding caused major damage to Camp Rio Vista, Camp Sierra Vista, and Camp Mystic. Buildings were destroyed. Equipment was swept away.
Camp staff and children were safely evacuated. No injuries were reported. But camp directors say the damage is “catastrophic.” These camps are a big part of Kerrville’s summer. Repairs may take months.
Families from across Texas and beyond had kids at these camps. Many rushed to the area or called in for updates. Staff worked all day to contact parents and keep everyone safe.
Holiday Events Cancelled
Kerrville had planned a big Fourth of July celebration called “Fourth on the River.” It was set for Louise Hays Park. Events included fireworks, music, and food trucks. Due to Guadalupe River flooding, all events were canceled.
The park was underwater. Tents and equipment were damaged. City officials said safety had to come first. Many families were already displaced or seeking shelter. There was no way to continue the festival.
Local leaders said the focus now is on recovery. They thanked emergency crews and volunteers for their fast action.
Residents React to Guadalupe River Flooding
Many longtime residents said they hadn’t seen flooding this bad in years. Some compared it to the historic 1987 flood. Others said it came faster than they expected. Videos on social media showed water sweeping across roads, yards, and into homes.
One local man said, “I went to bed with light rain. I woke up to water in my kitchen.” Another said she had to climb out of a window with her children. “We lost everything,” she said. “But we’re alive.”
Neighbors helped neighbors. People shared food, dry clothes, and phone chargers at shelters. Community groups started collecting supplies for victims.
More Rain Expected
Forecasters warned of more rain in the coming days. Another two to five inches could fall across Kerr County. With rivers already high, even small storms could cause new problems.
The National Weather Service kept flood watches in place. Residents were told to stay alert, check alerts, and avoid low water crossings. Emergency crews remained on standby in case of more evacuations.
Guadalupe River flooding may continue in waves depending on upstream rainfall. Officials asked people to stay patient and avoid driving through water.
Why Kerrville Floods Easily
Kerrville sits in a part of Texas known for sudden floods. The Hill Country has rocky ground. Rain doesn’t soak in—it runs off fast. The Guadalupe River can rise quickly after a storm.
The city has flood plans, but not every disaster can be prevented. In this case, the rain fell too fast, and too much at once. Even areas not near the river saw street flooding.
In past years, flood damage has led to improved alert systems. This time, alerts went out quickly, and many lives were likely saved. Still, the speed and strength of this storm caught many by surprise.
Local and State Response
Texas state officials offered support. The governor’s office activated state emergency teams. The Red Cross also sent teams to the area. Volunteers came from nearby towns with food, blankets, and medical supplies.
Crews will begin damage checks once water levels drop. Officials expect to find destroyed homes, washed-out roads, and broken utility lines. Cleanup will take days or even weeks.
Donations are already being collected. Local radio stations listed places where people can give supplies or money. Community leaders say the support so far has been strong.
What Happens Next
As Guadalupe River flooding continues to affect Kerrville, the focus now shifts to safety, support, and cleanup. City crews are working to reopen roads. Power companies are restoring service. Relief groups are helping families with housing, food, and clothing.
People are urged to stay away from flooded areas. Water may look calm but it can hide danger. Officials ask for patience. Recovery takes time, but the work has already begun.
Many residents say they’re grateful for their lives and for the help they’ve received. They plan to rebuild and recover.
Conclusion
Guadalupe River flooding hit Kerrville hard on July 4, 2025. With heavy rain, rising waters, and real tragedy, the community was shaken. But the response was fast. People came together. Rescue crews acted quickly. Shelters opened. Events were canceled, but lives were saved.
This flood will be remembered for years. And while the damage is great, the spirit of the people remains strong. Kerrville will move forward—one day at a time.
