Severe weather has claimed multiple lives and left several missing in parts of central Texas and New Jersey, as flash flooding and powerful thunderstorms swept through the regions.
In New Jersey, at least three people were killed Thursday night after trees fell on vehicles during intense storms. A 79-year-old and a 25-year-old man died in Plainfield, while a 44-year-old woman was killed in North Plainfield. Mayor Adrian Mapp of Plainfield expressed sorrow, calling the tragedy a “sobering reminder of the power of nature and the fragility of life.” The severe weather forced local officials to cancel Fourth of July festivities, including the annual parade and fireworks.
Meanwhile, in central Texas, authorities declared disasters in the Hill Country and Concho Valley following catastrophic flash flooding early Friday. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office confirmed loss of life and multiple people missing, though exact figures have yet to be released. Texas Governor Greg Abbott pledged full state support to impacted communities including Kerrville, Ingram, and Hunt, where homes and roads were inundated by fast-moving floodwaters.
“Folks, please don’t take chances,” warned Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. “Stay alert, follow local emergency warnings, and do not drive through flooded roads.”
Emergency crews have been conducting rescues and evacuations since the early morning hours. Photos from the region show bridges overwhelmed and raging water tearing through communities. Residents near rivers, creeks, and the Guadalupe River have been urged to seek higher ground as the threat of further flooding remains high. As both states begin cleanup and recovery efforts, officials are urging residents to remain cautious and monitor local alerts, with more severe weather potentially on the horizon.
