Surviving the Guadalupe River Flood: A Family’s Harrowing Story

The summer of 2025 will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of residents in central Texas, particularly those connected to Camp Mystic and Camp La Junta. On a seemingly ordinary night, the tranquility of the Guadalupe River transformed into a scene of devastation as flash flooding swept through the area, claiming at least 120 lives, including numerous children. This disaster not only changed the landscape but also left stories of survival and heroism, notably from the Rabon family as recounted during a segment on FOX Weather.

A Terrifying Night

For the Rabon family, the story of survival began when they sent their two sons, 7-year-old Brock and 9-year-old Braeden, to Camp La Junta, just two days before the flood. On that fateful night, Braeden recalls being startled awake around 4 a.m. by children screaming outside. “I thought maybe this is a prank,” he said. However, as he peered outside and observed the darkness illuminated by lightning, the reality of the situation dawned on him. Reports from multiple sources highlight how the Guadalupe River surged over 20 feet in minutes, overwhelming low-lying areas and catching campers off guard (KXAN).

The Camp’s Chaos

Braeden and his younger brother faced a terrifying ordeal as floodwaters began to rise rapidly around their cabin. “It was a very terrifying situation,” their mother, Keli Rabon, described. While Braeden was in an elevated cabin, Brock was stationed in one of the most vulnerable cabins that quickly became inundated with water. In a race against time, counselors acted heroically, moving children from lower bunks to upper bunks and ultimately into the rafters as water rushed in. The strength of their efforts emphasized the importance of preparedness in emergencies, a crucial lesson many are reflecting on in the wake of the flooding (The Texas Tribune).

A Parent’s Dilemma

Keli’s sense of dread escalated when she received an early morning text from the camp. The message attempted to assure parents that their children were safe, yet it lacked detail. “Your mind starts to race and wonder what is going on and how bad could the situation be?” she shared, highlighting the emotional turmoil parents feel in such situations. As news emerged about Camp Mystic—reporting 27 fatalities and ongoing searches for missing children—Keli hurriedly drove to the camp, encapsulating the anxiety of parents waiting to reunite with their kids amidst chaos. Her experience underscores the profound uncertainty families face in disasters (NBC News).

The Role of Community

In the aftermath of the devastating flood, the community of Kerrville came together to support one another. Residents gathered at memorials to pay respects to the victims, a heartwarming yet tragic scene that conveyed the deep sense of loss felt throughout the region. Community efforts to help those affected included food and water drops, organized by the National Guard and local volunteers. Such solidarity reflects a broader theme of resilience in the face of natural disasters, where neighbors come together, offering support to those in need (CNN).

Reflection and Recovery

As the dust settles in Kerrville, Texas, families like the Rabons and countless others are left with scars that take time to heal. While the Rabons are grateful for the survival of their children, the loss of life in the region serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by flash floods. “We hope that the rest of the nation keeps them top of mind for a long time to come,” Keli said, emphasizing the importance of continued support and attention for those affected by the tragedy. The incident has sparked discussions on emergency preparedness, stressing that communities must be equipped to handle such unforeseen natural calamities (NPR).

In light of this disaster, it is crucial to advocate for enhanced awareness and resources to mitigate future risks. Efforts must be made to educate families about flood safety and ensure that summer camps and other institutions have well-developed emergency protocols in place. By doing so, we can help prevent a recurrence of such a heart-wrenching situation.

Conclusion

The flooding along the Guadalupe River was not merely a natural disaster; it was a tragic event that reshaped lives and communities. While families like the Rabon’s have stories of survival, the loss felt across central Texas is monumental. It serves as a somber reminder of both the unpredictability of nature and the unwavering spirit of community resilience. As we look forward, it is essential to keep the stories of those affected at the forefront of our minds, ensuring that their experiences guide us in fostering safer environments for our children and communities in the future.

For those interested in learning more about flood preparedness and safety tips, resources can be found through the National Weather Service and Ready.gov.