Just after the Fourth of July celebrations, a freak, stalled storm unleashed more than nine inches of rain in mere hours across Kerrville, Texas. Flash floods along the Guadalupe River surged up to 26–29 feet, sweeping away homes, cars, and campers in a matter of minutes.
This tragedy is a stark reminder that nature’s fury can strike even amidst our most cherished traditions. Limited government means states and local officials must be fully equipped to respond when emergency strikes—and taxpayers deserve accountability for such preparedness.
The current death toll stands at 27 confirmed, including nine children, with 20–27 girls still missing from Camp Mystic near Kerrville. Heartbreaking scenes include flattened cabins and submerged personal belongings, a chilling testament to the speed and force of this flash flood.
Search and rescue teams—including the Coast Guard—have performed hundreds of high-water rescues, deploying helicopters, boats, and troopers. Gov. Greg Abbott and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that federal aid has been mobilized to support local efforts.
This disaster highlights the importance of fiscal responsibility in local emergency planning—roads, flood warning systems, hospital readiness. As National Review recently emphasized, when federal authority fails to predict or respond efficiently, it’s states and communities—backed by the private sector—that step up. Local control is common-sense security first.
Long-Term Lessons
- Climate volatility: While weather patterns shift, practical solutions—levees, real-time alerts—matter more than alarmist rhetoric.
- Empowered communities: Local governments and churches have been instrumental in relief.
- Prepared taxpayers: Flood mitigation isn’t optional—it’s a value rooted in protecting families and promoting resilient towns.
As more rain threatens, vigilance remains essential. Texans will rebuild—stronger, more efficient, and better prepared. Federal relief is vital, but long-term resilience depends on budgeting now for tomorrow’s emergency needs. Kerrville’s tragedy is a call to action: support local preparedness and stand firm in support of fiscal responsibility and freedom.
