texas news: after the storm
- Laci Greer
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 18
Over the July 4th weekend, Central Texas faced one of its most devastating natural disasters in recent memory. Torrential rains—fueled by the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry—poured down on the Hill Country, causing rivers like the Guadalupe to rise rapidly and with little warning. In some areas, the river swelled over 25 feet in under an hour. Entire communities were caught off guard, cabins and vehicles were swept away, and tragically, lives were lost. Among the hardest hit were areas in Kerr County and summer camps near Hunt, where many families are still waiting for news of their loved ones.
In the face of heartbreak, Texans are doing what they do best—showing up for each other. First responders and volunteer crews from across the country rushed in, risking their lives to search, rescue, and recover. Helicopters circled overhead. Boats, horses, and even drones were deployed. More than 400 people have already been rescued, and teams continue to work around the clock. Local churches, schools, and community centers opened their doors to shelter displaced families. What was a scene of destruction is now slowly becoming a place of unity, support, and hope.
In Kerrville and neighboring towns, candlelight vigils have become more than moments of remembrance—they are symbols of resilience. Strangers are sharing meals, offering clothes, giving hugs, and holding space for each other’s pain. Even those who lost everything are finding ways to help someone else. There’s something sacred in this kind of coming together—where disaster meets determination, and grief is met with grace.
To those reading who want to make a difference, there are many ways you can help. Financial donations are still one of the fastest ways to support relief efforts. The Kerr County Flood Relief Fund and several verified GoFundMe campaigns are actively supporting victims and recovery teams. The Red Cross has set up emergency shelters and continues to provide meals, comfort kits, and emotional support services to those in need. Organizations like TEXSAR and the United Cajun Navy are on the ground rescuing the stranded, while Operation BBQ Relief is feeding first responders and displaced families—just $25 can provide four hot meals.
For animal lovers, Austin Pets Alive! has been rescuing displaced pets and needs urgent donations for vet care and shelter resources. Good360 is distributing cleanup kits and emergency supplies to affected households.
If you're in Texas or nearby, consider volunteering your time. If you can’t be on the ground, spreading verified information and checking on loved ones near low-lying areas can still save lives. Mental health support is also available through Red Cross and FEMA crisis counseling for those impacted emotionally by the storm.
Though the damage is vast and the road ahead won’t be easy, there is a powerful light breaking through. You see it in the volunteers, the neighbors lending hands, the children drawing thank-you cards for rescue teams, and the quiet strength of communities determined to rebuild—not just what was lost, but what can be made stronger.
In moments like these, the storm may shake us—but it never breaks us. Texas will rise again, and we’ll do it together.
To learn more about how you can help or if you are in need of assistance, review the links below:
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