Kuwait has expressed its deep sympathy and solidarity with the United States following the devastating floods that struck the state of Texas, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kuwait extended heartfelt condolences to the U.S. leadership, government, and people, as well as to the families of the victims. The Ministry also wished a swift recovery for the injured.
Deadly flash floods in central Texas have claimed the lives of at least 43 people, with more than 20 girls from the Camp Mystic summer camp still unaccounted for. Torrential rains caused the Guadalupe River to rise rapidly, overwhelming nearby communities and triggering a large-scale emergency response.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed that among the deceased are 28 adults and 15 children. “We have recovered 43 deceased individuals in Kerr County,” he said.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing, involving hundreds of emergency personnel supported by helicopters, drones, and boats. More than 850 people have already been rescued, including many found clinging to trees, according to news reports.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick reported that the Guadalupe River rose by 26 feet (8 meters) in just 45 minutes on Friday morning due to the intense downpour. Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice said 27 children from Camp Mystic—a Christian summer camp located along the riverbanks—remain missing.
“We’ve been rescuing people out of these camps by the hundreds all day,” Rice stated.
Camp Mystic was left in ruins, with cabins filled with mud-soaked blankets, mattresses, and children’s belongings. The camp director described the flooding as “catastrophic.” Initially, floodwaters cut off access to the site, preventing contact with most of the 750 campers. Later, Texas Game Wardens confirmed that they had reached the camp and began evacuating the children.
President Donald Trump described the flooding as “terrible” and “shocking,” and has pledged federal assistance. Texas Governor Greg Abbott formally requested a disaster declaration, which was supported by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem during her visit to the region. Noem confirmed that the president would approve the declaration.
In a social media post, Trump stated that he and First Lady Melania Trump were praying for the victims, praising the efforts of first responders: “Our brave first responders are on site doing what they do best.”
Meanwhile, criticism is mounting over recent budget cuts to the National Weather Service and NOAA, key agencies responsible for weather forecasting and emergency response. Secretary Noem acknowledged the concerns, saying, “We need to renew this ancient system,” and that the president is committed to upgrading their technology.
The devastation across Kerr County was evident, with floodwaters leaving behind wrecked vehicles, debris, and damaged infrastructure in public areas like Louise Hays Park in Kerrville. Rescue efforts continue as officials work tirelessly to locate the missing and assist survivors.
