Torrential storms overnight triggered catastrophic flooding across Kerr County, claiming at least six lives and forcing officials to declare a local state of disaster Friday morning as the Guadalupe River surged to near-record levels.
The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fatalities but said additional information will not be released until families are notified. Evacuations are in progress along the river as what authorities called a “deadly flood wave” moves downstream, threatening Kerrville and Comfort and other areas.
At 5:10 a.m., the Guadalupe River at Hunt reached its second-highest recorded level, exceeding the 1987 flood, according to the National Weather Service. The river is expected to crest at 34 feet by 6 a.m., the National Water Prediction Service reported.
Flash Flood Emergencies remain in effect, with 6 to 7 inches of rain falling overnight—leading to rapid river rises and life-threatening conditions. In some parts of Kerr County, more than 7 inches fell in just six hours.
The damage is widespread. Johnson Creek near Ingram reached a staggering 810 cubic feet per second Thursday—more than double the previous record and dramatically higher than the median July flow of just 12 cfs, U.S. Geological Survey data show.
Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. and County Judge Rob Kelly signed disaster declarations on July 4, unlocking access to state emergency resources. Kelly described the ongoing rainfall as a “severe weather event” that continues to impact the area.
Power outages are affecting thousands. The Kerrville Public Utility Board reported 2,646 customers without electricity as of 9:30 a.m., including much of southeast Kerrville, Center Point, and Hunt. Floodwaters have rendered the Hunt Substation inaccessible, and multiple power lines are down near Riverhill, Center Point, and along Highway 173.
Authorities are urging anyone within 100 yards of the Guadalupe River to evacuate immediately. A reunification site has been established at the Walmart on Junction Highway.
The Texas Department of Transportation has shut down Highway 39 near Hunt, where evacuations are underway. Roads across the county are impassable, and Louise Hays Park is underwater. Kerrville’s "Fourth on the River" celebration has been canceled due to flooding.
“This is a life-threatening event,” Kerrville Police warned. “Do not wait to evacuate.”
The disaster declaration—issued under Section 418.108(A) of the Texas Government Code—remains in effect for up to seven days unless extended by the Kerrville City Council.
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