Video shows destructive flash flood submerging Texas Hill Country bridge in minutes

Severe flash flooding struck central Texas from July 4 to 6, 2025, after extreme rainfall of up to 517 mm (20.3 in) fell within hours, causing rivers to surge by more than 9 m (30 feet) and resulting in extensive damage and loss of life.

Intense storms stalled over the Texas Hill Country during the early morning hours of July 4, delivering extreme rainfall across Kerr, Travis, and surrounding counties. Localized rainfall totals exceeded 500 mm (20 inches) in less than 72 hours, rapidly saturating soils and triggering widespread flash floods.

The Guadalupe River rose by more than 9 m (30 feet) within two hours in several locations, sweeping away roads, bridges, cabins, and vehicles. Drone and surveillance footage captured entire structures being carried off by the fast-moving water in a matter of minutes.

More than 90 people have been confirmed dead as of 10:05 CST on July 7, with dozens still missing and hundreds rescued by emergency services. 75 people died in Kerr County, six in Travis, 4 in Burnet, 2 each in Williamson and Kendall and 1 in Tom Green.

Camps along the Guadalupe River were particularly affected, with many children and staff forced to seek higher ground or await rescue as buildings were washed away. The rapid onset of flooding left many communities with little time to respond.

The event was triggered by a combination of tropical moisture and stalled weather systems that produced record-breaking rainfall rates. Despite flash flood warnings, the speed and intensity of the deluge overwhelmed local warning systems and response capabilities.

Featured image credit: Paratrooper Brady

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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