Exploring the Hidden Dangers: Children’s Camps Located in High-Flood Risk Areas | CNN

The Texas Hill Country is known for its stunning landscapes. Over centuries, waterways have carved through granite and limestone, creating impressive peaks and valleys. But when heavy rain falls, the ground can’t soak it all up, and water rushes downhill into streams and rivers. This can lead to flooding, which affects many people and places in the region.

Flood zones are well understood by local governments and managers. They know which areas are most prone to floods during significant rain events. For instance, several camps near the Guadalupe River suffered damage during a recent storm on July 4th. These camps, including Camp Mystic, are located in areas that have a history of flooding, especially when there’s excessive rain.

According to FEMA’s database, flood zones are carefully mapped. These maps show where flooding is most likely to occur and how severe it can be. The recent flood in the Guadalupe River was particularly severe, categorized as a once-in-a-hundred-years event. This means there’s roughly a 1% chance of it happening in any given year. But with climate change, extreme weather events are becoming more common. A study by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) noted that regions like Texas are already experiencing more flash flood emergencies than ever before.

This year, Texas has seen its fair share of flooding, with parts of central Texas receiving more rain in a matter of hours than usual for an entire summer. This rapid downpour overwhelms the ground, which, after months of drought, struggles to absorb the water.

Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls, is located in a particularly risky area where the South Fork Guadalupe River meets Cypress Creek. Sadly, as of now, at least ten girls and one counselor are missing following the flood. In contrast, nearby Camp La Junta, a boys camp, was also affected, but most of its facilities are in lower-risk zones.

Teenager Wyndham Etheridge, who was at Camp La Junta, shared his experience during the flood. He described how campers sought refuge in his cabin. As the waters rose, they moved to higher ground in the loft. Thankfully, all campers at La Junta have been accounted for.

Overall, the recent flooding has not only impacted lives but has also highlighted the urgent need for better preparation and response to natural disasters. With climate change escalating, experts stress the importance of understanding flood risks and taking action to safeguard communities.

For more information on flood safety and preparedness, check out FEMA’s resources at FEMA Flood Insurance.

Source link