Texas Hill Country is still reeling from one of the deadliest natural disasters in its history. Two weeks after torrential rains unleashed catastrophic flooding across Central Texas, officials confirm that the death toll has risen to 135 — with more than 100 people still unaccounted for.
Entire towns like Llano, Marble Falls, and Burnet have been left scarred. Rivers that once brought life and beauty surged with unprecedented force, swallowing bridges, roads, and homes in a matter of minutes. First responders say the scope of destruction is still hard to comprehend.
“We’ve never seen anything like this,” said one rescue worker. “Entire families were swept away in seconds. We’re still pulling people from debris.”
Among the dead are children, elderly couples, and local ranchers who had lived in the region for generations. Makeshift memorials have begun to appear on fenceposts and courthouse lawns — crosses, candles, and hand-painted signs that read “Pray for Texas.”
Search-and-rescue efforts continue around the clock, with volunteers, dogs, and drones scouring remote canyons and creekbeds. But as time passes, hope is being tested.
Governor statements have pledged federal assistance, while churches and local organizations have mobilized food drives, shelter programs, and clothing donations. Celebrities and country music stars — including George Strait and Willie Nelson — have quietly donated to relief efforts, some even showing up in person.
But for many families, the grief is only beginning.
One mother, who lost both her parents and her youngest daughter, said through tears,
“The river took them. But it didn’t take our love. And it won’t take our community.”
As the waters recede and the muddy roads begin to dry, Texas stands at the edge of mourning and rebuilding. The stories that emerge — of heroism, heartbreak, and humanity — will shape how this tragedy is remembered.
135 lives lost. Over 100 still missing. But Texas has never been just numbers — it’s people. And every one of them mattered.