Alabama News

By Jim Vertuno and John Seewer, The Associated Press

KERRVILLE, Texas — Families sifted through waterlogged debris Sunday and stepped inside empty cabins at Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp ripped apart by flash floods that washed homes off their foundations and killed at least 78 people in central Texas.

Rescuers maneuvering through challenging terrain continued their desperate search for the missing, including 10 girls and a counselor from the camp. For the first time since the storms began pounding Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott said there were 41 people confirmed to be unaccounted for across the state and more could be missing.

In Kerr County, home to Camp Mystic and other youth camps in the Texas Hill Country, searchers have found the bodies of 68 people, including 28 children, Sheriff Larry Leitha said in the afternoon.

He pledged to keep searching until “everybody is found” from Friday’s flash floods. Ten other deaths were reported in Travis, Burnet, Kendall, Tom Green and Williamson counties, according to local officials. The death toll is certain to rise over the next few days, said Col. Freeman Martin of the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The governor warned Sunday that additional rounds of heavy rains lasting into Tuesday could produce more life-threatening flooding, especially in places already saturated.

Families were allowed to look around the camp beginning Sunday morning. One girl walked out of a building carrying a large bell. A man, who said his daughter was rescued from a cabin on the highest point in the camp, walked a riverbank, looking in clumps of trees and under big rocks.

A woman and a teenage girl, both wearing rubber waders, briefly went inside one of the cabins, which stood next to a pile of soaked mattresses, a storage trunk and clothes. At one point, the pair doubled over, sobbing before they embraced.

One family left with a blue footlocker. A teenage girl had tears running down her face looking out the open window, gazing at the wreckage as they slowly drove away.

Searching the disaster zone

While the families saw the devastation for the first time, nearby crews operating heavy equipment pulled tree trunks and tangled branches from the water as they searched the river.

With each passing hour, the outlook of finding more survivors became even more bleak. Volunteers and some families of the missing who drove to the disaster zone searched the riverbanks despite being asked not to do so.

Authorities faced growing questions about whether enough warnings were issued in an area long vulnerable to flooding and whether enough preparations were made.

President Donald Trump signed a major disaster declaration Sunday for Kerr County, activating the Federal Emergency Management Agency to Texas. “These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost, and many still missing,” Trump posted on social media.

The destructive, fast-moving waters rose 26 feet (8 meters) on the river in only 45 minutes before daybreak Friday, washing away homes and vehicles. The danger was not over as flash flood watches remained in effect and more rain fell in central Texas on Sunday.

Searchers used helicopters, boats and drones to look for victims and to rescue people stranded in trees and from camps isolated by washed-out roads. Officials said more than 850 people were rescued in the first 36 hours.

Prayers in Texas — and from the Vatican

Gov. Greg Abbott vowed that authorities will work around the clock and said new areas were being searched as the water receded. He declared Sunday a day of prayer for the state.

“I urge every Texan to join me in prayer this Sunday — for the lives lost, for those still missing, for the recovery of our communities, and for the safety of those on the front lines,” he said in a statement.

In Rome, Pope Leo XIV offered special prayers for those touched by the disaster. History’s first American pope spoke in English at the end of his Sunday noon blessing, “I would like to express sincere condolences to all the families who have lost loved ones, in particular their daughters who were in summer camp, in the disaster caused by the flooding of the Guadalupe River in Texas in the United States. We pray for them.”

The hills along the Guadalupe River are dotted with century-old youth camps and campgrounds where generations of families have come to swim and enjoy the outdoors. The area is especially popular around the Independence Day holiday, making it more difficult to know how many are missing.

Harrowing escapes from floodwaters

Survivors shared terrifying stories of being swept away and clinging to trees as rampaging floodwaters carried trees and cars past them. Others fled to attics inside their homes, praying the water wouldn’t reach them.

At Camp Mystic, a cabin full of girls held onto a rope strung by rescuers as they walked across a bridge with water whipping around their legs.

Among those confirmed dead were an 8-year-old girl from Mountain Brook, Alabama, who was at Camp Mystic, and the director of another camp up the road.

Two school-age sisters from Dallas were missing after their cabin was swept away. Their parents were staying in a different cabin and were safe, but the girls’ grandparents were unaccounted for.

Locals know the Hill Country as “ flash flood alley” but the flooding in the middle of the night caught many campers and residents by surprise even though there were warnings.

Warnings came before the disaster

The National Weather Service on Thursday advised of potential flooding and then sent out a series of flash flood warnings in the early hours of Friday before issuing flash flood emergencies — a rare alert notifying of imminent danger.

At the Mo-Ranch Camp in the community of Hunt, officials had been monitoring the weather and opted to move several hundred campers and attendees at a church youth conference to higher ground. At nearby Camps Rio Vista and Sierra Vista, organizers also had mentioned on social media that they were watching the weather the day before ending their second summer session Thursday.

Authorities and elected officials have said they did not expect such an intense downpour, the equivalent of months’ worth of rain for the area.

Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice said authorities are committed to a full review of the emergency response, including how the public was alerted to the storm threat.

Seewer reported from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press writers Adrian Sainz in Memphis, Tennessee; Cedar Attanasio in New York; Sophia Tareen in Chicago; Michelle Price in Bridgewater, N.J.; and Nicole Winfield in Rome contributed.

A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Sunday at 3:20 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 3:45 p.m. for Mobile County.

Wind gusts of up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are probable.

“At 3:20 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 11 miles southeast of Leakesville. This storm was nearly stationary,” says the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible.”

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.”

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

• Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
• These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

• After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
• Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of rapid water flow:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Slow down and drive with care:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

Prioritize visibility

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

A brand new episode of the hit reality show Duck Dynasty: The Revival premieres on A&E Sunday, July 6 at 9/8c.

Those hoping to tune in to see which country music celebrity is making a special guest appearance can stream this week’s new episode through Philo (free trial), DirecTV (free trial) or Sling (50% off first month).

For those who may have missed last week’s episode, Kori and the kids convinced Willie to build a chicken coop on their property but ended up leaving the eccentric Uncle Si to supervise. Meanwhile, Christian ended up putting his foot in his mouth to his pregnant wife Sadie and paid a price for it.

On this week’s upcoming episode, the focus shifts to Willie enlisting the help of a country music celebrity friend to try and convince his son Will to move back home to Louisiana. Meanwhile, Bella entrusts John Luke to fill in as a museum birthday tour guide, and chaos quickly ensues when Uncle Si shows up uninvited.

How to watch Duck Dynasty: The Revival season 1

Those interested in streaming this week’s new episode and the rest of season one can find the series available for streaming through Philo, DirecTV and Sling.

Both Philo and DirecTV offer free trials while Sling offers those that commit to a paid subscription half off their first month and one month free of AMC+.

Out of the three streaming services mentioned above, Philo is the cheapest option at just $28 a month after its 7-day free trial concludes.

What is Philo?

Philo is considered one of the most affordable streaming platforms on the market. Known as an entertainment-focused streaming service, Philo offers its subscribers access to over 70 top-rated TV channels such as TLC, MTV, BET, AMC, CMT, Investigation Discovery and more.

New users can enjoy Philo’s 7-day free trial and continue to stream top channels, hit TV shows and movies on-demand for just $28 a month once the free trial expires.

Those looking to customize their flow of content even further on Philo can consider including add-ons such as MGM+, STARZ, and AMC+ in their subscription.

What is DirecTV?

DirecTV is a top streaming service perfect for those looking to access a plethora of live TV channels and enjoy helpful features. The base package starts at just $86.99 a month after its 5-day free trial and includes popular TV channels such as HGTV, ESPN, Bravo, CMT, CNBC, BET, CNN and more.

DirecTV has also recently introduced a lineup of genre packs, which allows subscribers to choose their favorite viewing options based on what genre they watch the most. With genre packs, users can get the channels and content they want without filler channel overload. Packs start at just $34.99 a month.

Those interested in comparing all DirecTV’s channel packages and the new genre packs can check them out here.

What is Sling?

Sling is another streaming service to consider if you want to access top-rated TV channels like A&E. Though no free trial is available to new subscribers, those who commit to a paid plan get half off the first month and one month free of AMC+.

Both the Sling Orange plan and the Sling Blue plan are normally $45.99 a month, but with the current promotion, Sling users will pay just $23 a month for the first month.

For those who wish to access channels from both the Sling Blue and Sling Orange plans can do so by signing up for the Orange + Blue plan, which combines the best of both plans for just $60.99 a month ($30.50 for the first month).

The biggest prize in North American soccer is on the line Sunday, and to nobody’s surprise, it comes down to the United States vs. Mexico.

The continent’s biggest soccer powers will face off in the CONCACAF Gold Cup Final at Houston’s NRG Stadium in the last competitive match (excluding friendlies) for each squad before they co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The United States is playing without stars who are expected to be starters next summer, including Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Tim Weah, for various reasons. Mexico has more of its regulars but is also not at full strength (Jesus Corona is playing in the FIFA Club World Cup).

Despite the absences, the rivalry will be electric on Sunday with a trophy on the line. Mexico is a slight favorite. Here are our USA vs. Mexico Gold Cup Final predictions, picks and best bets.

USA vs. Mexico predictions and best bets

• USA ‘to lift Cup’: +116 at FanDuel
• Total goals regular time Under 2.5: -170 at Caesars
• Player to score or assists – Diego Luna: +450 at bet365

Note: Odds are based on the best value our experts find while writing; check lines closer to game time to ensure you get the best odds.

Mexico used to own this rivalry and still has the all-time edge, but since El Tri won the 2019 Gold Cup final, the Americans have been on the front foot in competitive matches with a 5-0-1 record.

The turning point occurred when the US won the CONCACAF Nations League Final in June 2021 and the Gold Cup Final two months later. The US followed that with a win in a FIFA World Cup Qualifier in November 2021.

International soccer differs from other sports in that teams may not face their biggest rivals more than once a year. Despite that, momentum matters. Right now, the Americans have it.

It is not ideal that the U.S. is playing without so many players who will feature in the 2026 World Cup, but the squad is playing well anyway. The Americans still have Tyler Adams, Chris Richards and Malik Tillman.

Plus, energetic midfielder Diego Luna is having a great tournament with three goals and two assists in five games, including a first-half brace in the semifinal win over Guatemala.

The U.S. also has the betting odds on its side. Mexico is the favorite, which gives the U.S. better value. El Tri could certainly win, but the value isn’t there unless you’re willing to bet them on the three-way moneyline (+155 at DraftKings Sportsbook).

Regardless of the wager you want to make, pay close attention to the market because soccer betting is different. If you pick either team or the draw on the three-way moneyline, your bet is for the first 90 minutes only.

The Gold Cup final will feature two 45-minute halves and, if tied at the end of regulation, two 15-minute periods of extra time. If tied after extra time, a penalty shootout will determine the champion.

If you bet on the U.S. to win on the three-way moneyline, and the match is tied after 90 minutes, you lose your bet even if the U.S. wins in extra time or penalties.

If you don’t want to mess with those details, look for the betting market titled “to lift the cup” or “to lift the trophy.” That way, you’re betting on the champion regardless of when it is determined.

Mexico’s strength in the first five games has been its defense. El Tri conceded two goals in its group stage opener and zero in its next four matches. Mexico limited Honduras and Saudi Arabia to one on-target shot apiece in the knockout round.

The Americans scored at least two goals in four of five matches, but they have yet to face a defense as strong as Mexico’s. That makes the Under a strong play. This betting market only counts goals scored in the first 90 minutes.

If any American player can solve the Mexico defense, it is Luna. He is as energetic as it gets in the attacking midfield role, a perfect attribute for scoring or assisting. He has three goals in his last two games and has two assists in this tournament.

USA vs. Mexico moneyline odds analysis

Why Mexico could win as the favorite

Best three-way moneyline odds: +155 at DraftKings Sportsbook

Momentum matters, but Mexico’s defense is the antidote to squash it. El Tri has been great on the back end, and if those players keep their form, it will be the difference on Sunday.

As fun as the U.S. has been to watch, it doesn’t have a player who has scored big goals like Mexico’s Raul Jimenez. In 116 appearances, the Fulham player has 41 goals for his country, including the winner in Wednesday’s 1-0 semifinal triumph over Honduras. He’s the kind of player who can make a difference in a final.

Why USA could win as the underdog

Best three-way moneyline odds: +220 at DraftKings Sportsbook

The U.S. may be missing most of its top players, but that doesn’t hurt as much as it seems. It means players like Luna and goalkeeper Matt Freese have opportunities to play their way into the World Cup squad. The underdog mentality never hurt anybody either.

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If you or a loved one has questions or needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.

Team USA plays against Mexico in the Gold Cup Final tonight. The matchup is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. CT on FOX. Fans can watch this soccer game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV and Fubo TV.

Team USA has a 5-0-0 record at the Gold Cup this year, and they are coming off a close 2-1 win against Guatemala in the semifinal round. Notably, Team USA has won most of its games at the tournament by one goal. With this in mind, the Gold Cup Final should be exciting to watch.

In order to take home the trophy tonight, Team USA will need great performances from their star players Malik Tillman and Diego Luna. Both players have scored three goals at the Gold Cup this year, which leads the Team USA offense.

Notably, Luna scored both goals against Guatemala in the semifinals.

In order to win the Gold Cup Final, Mexico will need to rely on their star player Raul Jimenez. He scored the team’s only goal last game, so he will try to find the back of the net tonight.

Fans can watch the Gold Cup Final for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV and Fubo TV.

A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Sunday at 1:50 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 2:15 p.m. for Baldwin County.

The storms may bring pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 1:49 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Spanish Fort. This storm was nearly stationary,” says the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible.”

The alert is for Daphne, Spanish Fort and Loxley.

The weather service comments, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.”

Staying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

• Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
• Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

Wait for the all-clear:

• After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
• Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

Former White Sox pitcher Bobby Jenks died of stomach cancer in Portugal Friday after being diagnosed earlier this year, according to ESPN.

“We have lost an iconic member of the White Sox family today,” White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said in a statement.

Jenks launched his pro career in Alabama, playing for the Birmingham Barons in 2005, before ascending to pitch for the White Sox in 2006.

Jenks played with the White Sox for six seasons, between 2005 and 2010. He played for the Boston Red Sox in 2011.

In 2005, he played a key role in helping the White Sox win the World Series for the first time in 88 years.

“You play for the love of the game, the joy of it,” ESPN reported Jenks said in his last interview with SoxTV last year. “It’s what I love to do. I [was] playing to be a world champion, and that’s what I wanted to do from the time I picked up a baseball.”

A California native, Jenks was originally drafted by the Anaheim Angels in 2000, according to ESPN.

Jenks ended his career with a 16-20 record. He had a 3.53 ERA and 173 saves.

He is survived by his wife and their two children as well as four children from a previous marriage.

The Thunder Moon or Buck Moon, as it’s called, the first full moon of the astronomical summer, will occur Thursday.

On July 10, the moon will rise in the southeastern sky and will be illuminated throughout the evening until it sets in the southwest.

The full moon is not out of the ordinary but is recognized as a notable point in the natural cycle of the year. July’s full moon is called the Thunder Moon because of its timing with frequent summer thunderstorms.

It’s also known as the Buck Moon, because of its alignment with the growth spurts of male deer whose antlers are in full velvet by July, according to the Farmer’s Almanac. In Alaska, Native American communities dubbed the event Salmon Moon because it coincides with the timing of salmon run.

There will be more opportunities for stargazing in July. Two meteor showers and a view of the Milky Way will be visible this month.

By Jim Vertuno, Julio Cortez and John Seewer, The Associated Press

KERRVILLE, Texas — The death toll from flash floods that rampaged through Central Texas rose to at least 67 on Sunday as rescuers maneuvering through challenging terrain found more bodies and continued their desperate search for many others, including 11 missing girls from a summer camp.

Searchers in Kerr County have found 16 bodies since Saturday afternoon, bringing the total number of dead there to 59, said Sheriff Larry Leitha. The dead included 21 children, he said.

He pledged to keep searching in that Hill Country region until “everybody is found” from Friday’s flash floods.

Four deaths also were reported in Travis County, three in Burnet and 1 in Kendall.

Rescuers dealt with broken trees, overturned cars and muck-filled debris in the difficult task to find survivors. Authorities still have not said how many people were missing beyond the 11 children and a camp counselor from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp.

Families were allowed to look around the camp Sunday morning while nearby crews operating heavy equipment pulled tree trunks and tangled branches out of the water as they searched along a riverbank. Thunder rumbled from a new storm.

A woman and a teenage girl, both wearing rubber waders, briefly went inside one of the cabins, which stood next to a pile of soaked mattresses, a storage trunk and clothes. At one point, the pair doubled over, sobbing before they embraced.

With each passing hour, the outlook of finding more survivors became even more bleak. Volunteers and some families of the missing who drove to the disaster zone searched the riverbanks despite being asked not to do so.

Authorities faced growing questions about whether enough warnings were issued in area long vulnerable to flooding and whether enough preparations were made.

The destructive, fast-moving waters rose 26 feet (8 meters) on the river in only 45 minutes before daybreak Friday, washing away homes and vehicles. The danger was not over as flash flood watches remained in effect and more rain fell in central Texas on Sunday.

Searchers used helicopters, boats and drones to look for victims and to rescue people stranded in trees and from camps isolated by washed-out roads. Officials said more than 850 people were rescued in the first 36 hours.

Prayers in Texas — and from the Vatican

Gov. Greg Abbott vowed that authorities will work around the clock and said new areas were being searched as the water receded. He declared Sunday a day of prayer for the state.

“I urge every Texan to join me in prayer this Sunday — for the lives lost, for those still missing, for the recovery of our communities, and for the safety of those on the front lines,” he said in a statement.

In Rome, Pope Leo XIV offered special prayers for those touched by the disaster. History’s first American pope spoke in English at the end of his Sunday noon blessing, “I would like to express sincere condolences to all the families who have lost loved ones, in particular their daughters who were in summer camp, in the disaster caused by the flooding of the Guadalupe River in Texas in the United States. We pray for them.”

The hills along the Guadalupe River are dotted with century-old youth camps and campgrounds where generations of families have come to swim and enjoy the outdoors. The area is especially popular around the Independence Day holiday, making it more difficult to know how many are missing.

“We don’t even want to begin to estimate at this time,” Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice said on Saturday.

Harrowing escapes from floodwaters

Survivors shared terrifying stories of being swept away and clinging to trees as rampaging floodwaters carried trees and cars past them. Others fled to attics inside their homes, praying the water wouldn’t reach them.

At Camp Mystic, a cabin full of girls held onto a rope strung by rescuers as they walked across a bridge with water whipping around their legs.

Among those confirmed dead were an 8-year-old girl from Mountain Brook, Alabama, who was at Camp Mystic, and the director of another camp up the road.

Locals know the area as “ flash flood alley” but the flooding in the middle of the night caught many campers and residents by surprise even though there were warnings.

Warnings came before the disaster

The National Weather Service on Thursday advised of potential flooding and then sent out a series of flash flood warnings in the early hours of Friday before issuing flash flood emergencies — a rare alert notifying of imminent danger.

At the Mo-Ranch Camp in the community of Hunt, officials had been monitoring the weather and opted to move several hundred campers and attendees at a church youth conference to higher ground. At nearby Camps Rio Vista and Sierra Vista, organizers also had mentioned on social media that they were watching the weather the day before ending their second summer session Thursday.

Authorities and elected officials have said they did not expect such an intense downpour, the equivalent of months’ worth of rain for the area.

U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, whose district includes the ravaged area, acknowledged that there would be second-guessing and finger-pointing as people look for someone to blame.

Cortez reported from Hunt, Texas, and Seewer from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press writers Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut, Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Nicole Winfield in Rome contributed.