A flood disaster in Texas, United States, has resulted in the deaths of 27 children who participated in a summer camp, bringing the total number of fatalities to 94.
According to AP and CNN on the 7th (local time), at least 75 people lost their lives in this town due to heavy rains that hit Central Texas on the 4th. Among them, it has been confirmed that 27 girls who participated in 'Camp Mystic' died.
Six additional victims have been found in Kendall County. Their identities have not yet been confirmed. A total of 19 more people have died in nearby counties, bringing the total number of victims to 94.
António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, also expressed his 'deep sadness' over the disaster. Stéphane Dujarric, the United Nations Spokesperson, noted that this was a disaster that occurred during what should have been a festive holiday weekend, stating, 'The Secretary-General extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and stands in solidarity with all those affected, including the residents of Texas and the U.S. government.'
Texas authorities announced that the total number of missing persons is at least 41. Among them, 10 children and 1 counselor from the camp have yet to be found.
According to ABC, large-scale search operations involving heavy equipment and personnel are ongoing, but rain and severe weather continue in the area after the flood, causing difficulties in the operations. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flood warning for the area until 7 p.m. that day.
U.S. media reported that the amount of rainfall and the scale of damage constitute a disaster that 'occurs once every 100 years.'
However, in the political arena, criticism has arisen that authorities failed to respond appropriately because no evacuation orders were issued for camping sites and residential areas at high risk of river flooding and rapid currents.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer requested an investigation from the U.S. Department of Commerce regarding whether the cuts and staffing shortages at the National Weather Service (NWS) contributed to the casualties in Texas.
In contrast, White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt condemned such criticisms as 'immoral and vile' during a briefing that day, emphasizing that 'the National Weather Service issued timely flood warnings.'