
UN chief mourns loss of life in Texas floods, including children at summer camp
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep sorrow over the devastating floods in the U.S. state of Texas, which have claimed over 100 lives, including a large number of children.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres said he was “deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life, notably of a large number of children, caused by the recent floods in Texas, which struck during what should have been a time of celebration over the holiday weekend.”
He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with those affected, as well as with the people of Texas and the U.S. government.
The flooding, triggered by torrential rain on July 4th, has left hundreds missing and communities devastated. Camp Mystic, a Christian all-girls’ summer camp in Kerr County, was hit particularly hard, with at least 27 campers and staff confirmed dead, and 11 others still missing.
Officials said 84 of the victims, including 28 children, died in Kerr County, where the Guadalupe River overflowed due to relentless downpours. Many victims remain unidentified.
Richard Eastland, 70, the camp’s co-owner and director, died while trying to save the children. “He died a hero,” said local pastor Del Way, calling Eastland’s death a profound loss for the community.
Search-and-rescue efforts continue amid dangerous conditions, but hopes of finding more survivors are fading. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of more thunderstorms and potential flash flooding.
The White House rejected criticism that budget cuts to the NWS impacted the disaster response.