The tragedy unfolding in Texas is taking on unimaginable proportions due to the sudden floods that followed torrential rains in Kerr County. At the center of the disaster is the Christian girls’ summer camp, Camp Mystic, located on the banks of the Guadalupe River, which was hosting over 700 children.

According to the latest report, the water level rose by 8 meters (over 26 feet) in just 45 minutes, resulting in the deaths of 27 people—18 adults and 9 children—while 27 girls from the camp are still missing. The same update confirmed that 850 people have been rescued, with at least 160 of those rescues carried out by air.

The Victims

So far, three of the children who lost their lives have been identified: 8-year-old Renée Smaistrala, 9-year-old Janie Hunt, and Sarah Marsh, who drowned in the raging waters that overwhelmed the camp.

Among the confirmed victims is also 27-year-old father Julian Ryan, who died while trying to save his family.

Julian broke a window to help his fiancée, children, and mother climb onto the roof of their home. However, he suffered a torn artery in his arm from the impact. “I’m sorry, I won’t make it. I love you all,” were his last words.

Authorities have also identified Jeff Ramsey, the director of another camp, and Jane Ragsdale.

At the same time, meteorologists are forecasting more storms in the region, making rescue operations even more difficult.

Many roads have been closed, and phone lines are down, making communication limited.

The search and rescue operation, involving helicopters and boats, will continue until all missing persons are located, local authorities said today. A state of emergency has been declared in several Texas counties.

U.S. President Donald Trump called it a “terrible disaster” and described the floods as “shocking.”