**Texas Flooding Claims 43 Lives; Search Intensifies for Missing in Kerr County**

In a devastating turn of events, at least 43 people have been confirmed dead following catastrophic flooding in Kerr County, Texas. Among the deceased, tragically, are 15 children, with the search ongoing for those still missing. The flooding, which struck with little warning, has overwhelmed rescue operations, prompting hundreds of first responders to mobilize in a desperate bid to locate survivors.

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Smith confirmed the grim statistics during a press briefing, revealing that 28 adults and 15 children have been recovered, with additional bodies pending identification. “We are doing everything we can to find the last person,” he stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The sheriff’s office has set up a missing persons hotline, urging families to report loved ones who are unaccounted for.

As rescue teams comb through the debris along the Guadalupe River, the community grapples with the aftermath of this unprecedented disaster. The flooding escalated rapidly, rising 20 to 30 feet in mere hours, leaving campers and residents with little time to evacuate. Authorities are now focusing on life safety and recovery efforts, with the governor assuring that all necessary resources are being deployed.

The search area has expanded significantly, with operations now covering a one-mile stretch along the riverbanks. Officials warn that conditions remain hazardous, with contaminated water and structural dangers posing ongoing risks. Power outages continue to affect approximately 600 customers, complicating recovery efforts further.

“This is a marathon, and we must take care of each other,” said city manager Dalton Rice, as the community rallies together in the face of tragedy. With the next updates scheduled for 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. tomorrow, the situation remains fluid, and the toll of this disaster could rise as recovery operations continue.