Severe flooding in central Texas, particularly in Kerr County, has caused significant casualties and damage. The disaster stems from a combination of geographic, meteorological, and systemic factors.

Kerr County is known for its rugged, low-lying terrain, making it one of the most flash flood-prone areas in the United States. Many homes and summer camps are built along riverbanks, increasing their vulnerability when water levels rise.

A second major factor was the intense burst of rainfall within a short period. According to the local emergency authorities, the river rose over 8 meters in just 45 minutes during the early morning hours of July 4. The surge swept away debris, trees, and even overflowed roadways, endangering anyone nearby.

Local warning systems are also under scrutiny. Volunteers at one of the hardest-hit summer camps reported receiving alert messages only minutes before floodwaters began submerging parts of the camp. Many people were still asleep and had little time to react.

Additionally, the region's riverbanks lack proper flood control infrastructure. Along a 10-kilometer stretch surveyed by reporters, the banks were lined only with natural vegetation, dirt, and rocks. Without effective barriers, the river quickly overflowed – uprooting trees, carrying sediment downstream, and damaging homes and camps in low-lying areas.

The death toll from the flash flooding in central Texas has risen to 104, with dozens still missing as search and rescue efforts entered their fourth day on Monday, according to local authorities.