Kerr County and state officials are now planning to drain parts of two reservoir lakes - Nimitz and New Ingram - to help uncover victims and submerged debris from the July 4 flooding along the Guadalupe River. The decision follows a two‑day pause in search efforts due to fresh rain and flash‑flood warnings that have repeatedly hampered operations.
Following the catastrophic storm that claimed at least 132 lives statewide, including more than 100 in Kerr County, the search has seen more than 2,200 responders involved—ranging from fast‑water rescue units to sonar‑equipped crews and volunteer teams.
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Commissioner Don Harris emphasized the urgency: “Who knows how many out there are completely covered,” citing reports of flood‑buried trailers found nearly 30 feet underwater.
FEMA’s Urban Search and Rescue teams have resumed ground operations, though volunteers are being pulled back when river levels spike, with repeated flash‑flood alerts keeping everyone on edge.
Even with crews back at work, officials stress that draining the reservoirs is key to exposing hidden victims and speeding up recovery efforts before another round of rain strikes.
As the region navigates this next phase, officials warn residents that recovery could stretch into the next six months - and possibly years - to fully clear debris and bring closure to families.
Emergency management urges the public to stay informed, respect safety zones, and check flash‑flood updates before heading into search areas.
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