Guadalupe River in Kerrville Surpasses 1987 Flood Mark in Catastrophic Flash Flooding
The Guadalupe River in Kerrville surged to 34 feet after 7 to 10 inches of rain, causing catastrophic flooding and surpassing the 1987 flood. Homes, businesses, and lives are affected across the region.
KERRVILLE, TX, July 4, 2025
The Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas surged to catastrophic levels this morning, reaching 34 feet. This is the second highest crest ever recorded, surpassing the destructive 1987 flood. Emergency crews and local authorities are responding to a fast-moving disaster that has submerged homes and businesses, swept away vehicles, and led to rooftop rescues in nearby Hunt, Texas.
According to the National Weather Service and regional hydrologists, 7 to 10 inches of rain fell overnight and into the morning across the upper Guadalupe River Basin. This rapid accumulation overwhelmed the river system and caused a sudden and dangerous rise in water levels.
By mid-morning, the river had reached 34 feet in parts of Kerrville, well beyond flood stage and dangerously close to the all-time record.
Rescue Efforts and Damage Reports
Authorities report multiple water rescues underway. In Hunt, located just upstream of Kerrville, rescue teams used boats and high-water vehicles to save residents stranded on rooftops. Several homes in low-lying areas were completely inundated by fast-rising waters. Emergency alerts urged residents to shelter in place or move to higher ground.
In Kerrville, downtown streets were submerged, with floodwaters rushing into local businesses and homes near the riverfront. Law enforcement closed multiple roads, including several state highways and low-water crossings. Video footage circulating online shows cars being carried downstream by the current and debris clogging bridges.
The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office has asked the public to stay away from flood zones and warned that the current remains strong and visibility is limited due to debris and murky water.
Historical Significance
Today’s flood crest surpasses the 1987 flood event, which was previously one of the most destructive on record for the region. Only the flood of 1932 is believed to have reached a higher level.
Officials are already calling the 2025 event a historic natural disaster for the Hill Country, with initial estimates pointing to millions in damages.
Weather Outlook and State Response
More rainfall is possible in the next 24 hours, with scattered thunderstorms expected through Saturday. Additional rain could worsen flooding conditions or trigger secondary flash floods downstream in Comal and Guadalupe counties.
Governor Greg Abbott’s office has been briefed, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management is assisting local agencies. Shelters are being opened for displaced residents, and state rescue teams remain on standby for continued operations.
Affected Communities
Communities along the Guadalupe River between Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, and areas farther downstream should continue to monitor emergency notifications. Flash flood warnings remain in effect across the region. Emergency responders are urging residents to avoid driving across flooded roads and to follow all evacuation orders.
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