Severe flash flooding in Texas has resulted in the deaths of at least 78 people, including 28 children, after heavy rains caused rivers and streams to overflow rapidly over a holiday weekend.

One area of central Texas was especially hard hit, with local officials reporting the majority of the fatalities. Additional deaths have been confirmed in surrounding counties, and dozens of people remain missing.

The disaster worsened at a summer camp, where several campers and staff are still unaccounted for after water levels rose swiftly, overwhelming cabins and washing away vehicles and debris across the campgrounds.

Eyewitnesses described terrifying conditions as a river surged nearly nine meters within less than an hour, sweeping away homes, vehicles, and cabins. Rescue teams have saved more than 850 people, including those stranded on rooftops or clinging to trees.

Authorities at local and national levels have mobilized extensive resources, including helicopters, boats, drones, and heavy equipment to aid in search and rescue efforts under a declared disaster emergency.

The national leader has expressed condolences and plans to visit the affected area. Officials have also warned that more heavy rainfall is forecast in the coming days, raising fears of further flooding in already saturated regions.

Emergency response teams are reviewing their warnings and preparedness strategies following questions about whether the flash flood alerts were sufficient given the speed and severity of the flooding.