Severe Flooding in Texas Overwhelms Kerrville During Holiday Weekend

KERRVILLE, Texas — A sudden and relentless storm unleashed up to 15 inches of rain across parts of central Texas, triggering catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe River in Kerrville over the July Fourth holiday weekend in 2025. The deluge, described by local meteorologists as a “once-in-a-generation event,” led to over 850 rescues as emergency services scrambled to assist residents trapped in homes, vehicles, and low-lying areas.

The flooding began late on July 3, when a slow-moving storm system stalled over the region, dumping torrential rain in a matter of hours. The Guadalupe River, a vital waterway for the Hill Country community, swelled beyond its banks, submerging roads, bridges, and neighborhoods. By July 5, Kerrville’s emergency response teams, bolstered by state and federal support, were conducting high-water rescues using boats, helicopters, and swift-water teams. Among the most dramatic incidents was the evacuation of an entire RV park, where floodwaters swept away vehicles and left dozens stranded.

Local authorities reported no fatalities as of July 7, but the damage to infrastructure and property is extensive, with early estimates suggesting millions of dollars in losses. Homes were inundated, businesses along the riverfront were shuttered, and key roads, including parts of State Highway 16, remained closed due to debris and standing water. Power outages affected thousands, with restoration efforts hampered by continued rain and unsafe conditions.

The crisis has sparked intense scrutiny over the adequacy of flood warnings. Residents and local leaders are questioning why alerts were not issued sooner, given forecasts predicting heavy rain. The National Weather Service had issued a flash flood watch, but critics argue that more specific and urgent warnings could have prompted earlier evacuations. Kerrville Mayor Judy Eychner defended the city’s response, stating, “We acted on the information available, but the speed and volume of this storm were unprecedented.” The Texas Division of Emergency Management has promised a thorough review of the warning systems and response protocols.

Stories of heroism and community resilience have emerged amid the chaos. Local resident Maria Gonzalez recounted how neighbors used kayaks to rescue elderly residents from a flooded apartment complex. “We just did what we had to do,” she said. Meanwhile, volunteers have set up shelters at Kerrville’s community center, providing food, blankets, and medical care to displaced families.

The flooding comes as Texas continues to grapple with extreme weather patterns, with climate experts noting that heavy rainfall events are becoming more frequent and severe. Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency for Kerr County and surrounding areas, unlocking additional resources for recovery. Federal aid is also being coordinated through FEMA, with teams assessing the damage.

As the waters recede, Kerrville faces a long road to recovery. The community is rallying, but the questions about preparedness and the growing threat of extreme weather loom large. For now, residents are focused on rebuilding, even as they brace for potential additional rain in the forecast.