Austin, Texas - State officials confirmed Friday evening that at least 13 people have died in devastating floods that swept across Texas beginning Thursday, prompting an official state of emergency declaration.

Key Developments:

1. Confirmed Casualties: Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha announced 13 confirmed fatalities, with search and rescue operations ongoing.

2. Missing Persons: Approximately 20 individuals remain unaccounted for, including campers at a summer camp in hard-hit Kerr County.

3. Emergency Response:

   • Hundreds of first responders deployed

   • 14 helicopters and dozens of drones conducting aerial searches

   • Water rescue teams and National Guard activated

4. Weather Data: Up to 30 cm (12 inches) of rainfall recorded in affected areas

Official Statements:

• Sheriff Leitha: "The death toll may rise in coming hours. Our top priority remains saving lives and accounting for all victims."

• Lt. Governor Dan Patrick: "We've mobilized all available resources, including water rescue teams and emergency shelters."

• Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly described the event as "an extremely deadly and destructive flood event."

Current Conditions:

• The National Weather Service maintains flash flood emergencies for parts of Kerr County

• Rescuers report vehicles and debris floating in floodwaters

• Identification of victims remains ongoing