Texas flood death toll rises amid recovery efforts
The death toll from floods in Texas, United States, is rising. At least 120 people have died, and over 170 are missing.
Among the victims are dozens of children, including those from the Mystic girls' summer camp, and local residents who were camping or tenting along riverbanks, according to Euronews.
People with candles, flowers, and prayers are heading to makeshift memorials adorned with photographs of the victims.
Authorities stated they are reviewing lists of those still missing, but added that figures can fluctuate in the initial days following a disaster.
Special centers have been set up for affected individuals where they can go for help. Families are being offered food vouchers, coverage for hotel accommodation, and payment for public services.
Search and rescue teams continued to scour the Hill Country region and adjacent areas, removing debris. According to officials, approximately 100 victims were found in Kerr County alone.
Survivors recall that nightmare night and how they managed to make it through. One woman recounted how, along with a group of people including a baby, she climbed onto a roof to escape the rising water. They saw cars floating by and heard screams in the darkness.
On Friday, July 11, US President Donald Trump will visit Texas, having promised to provide the state with all necessary aid for reconstruction.
"I think it's great that he decided to come here, to help us and do everything he can," said Margaret Marrell, a Kerrville local who came to a memorial for the flood victims.
"No one could have expected this. This kind of thing happens once every 200 years," President Donald Trump told NBC News in an interview.
Last Friday, the Guadalupe River rose by more than eight meters in just 45 minutes due to the incessant torrential rains that pounded Texas. Officials claim they did not anticipate such intense rainfall in this area, where an entire month's worth of precipitation fell.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has asked state lawmakers to approve funding for new warning systems and emergency communications in flood-prone areas.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
