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The Catastrophic Kerrville Flood of July 4, 2025
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On July 4, 2025, what began as a festive Independence Day in Texas Hill Country turned into one of the deadliest flash flood disasters in recent U.S. history. Overnight thunderstorms dumped intense rainfall—up to 11 inches in some spots—across Central Texas, triggering a catastrophic surge along the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, TX and surrounding areas.
The river rose with terrifying speed: in Hunt, it climbed over 29 feet, including a 2-foot surge in just five minutes around 4:20 a.m. Downstream in Kerrville, gauges recorded rises of 21 feet in one hour and nearly 27 feet in 45 minutes. Flash flood emergencies were issued starting at 4:03 a.m., warning residents to seek higher ground immediately, but the velocity left little time for escape.
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The human toll was heartbreaking. Kerr County bore the brunt, with 119 confirmed deaths, including dozens of children at riverside summer camps. Camp Mystic, a historic all-girls camp near Hunt, lost 27 campers and counselors when cabins were swept away in the darkness. Homes, RVs, and vehicles were destroyed; entire families perished as waters engulfed low-lying areas.
Rescue operations launched swiftly, involving local first responders, Texas Rangers, and out-of-state teams with swiftwater expertise and K9 units. Hundreds of frantic 911 calls flooded dispatch centers starting at 2:52 a.m., capturing pleas from rooftops and trapped vehicles—many callers did not survive. Kerrville Police later released these distressing recordings, highlighting the chaos.
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Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster, expanding aid as damage assessments revealed widespread destruction. The region, known as "Flash Flood Alley" for its steep terrain and rocky soil, has a history of deadly floods, including events in 1987 and 2002, but the 2025 catastrophe surpassed them in scale.
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In the aftermath, memorials honored the victims, investigations probed warning systems and preparedness, and communities grappled with rebuilding. Months later, the flood serves as a stark reminder of nature's power in vulnerable landscapes.
Jason Pike, a former Navy SEAL and combat veteran, has dedicated his life to service far beyond the battlefield. As the CEO and founder of Warhorse Ministries, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Pike channels his experiences from high-stakes military operations into meaningful humanitarian and faith-based work. Drawing from his own journey of overcoming personal trauma, rediscovering faith, and building resilience, Pike established Warhorse Ministries to support individuals facing physical, mental, and spiritual challenges. The organization emphasizes Christian principles, offering hope and practical guidance to veterans, families, and communities in need.
Warhorse Ministries operates through multiple avenues, including the popular War Horse Podcast, where Pike interviews guests on topics of perseverance, recovery, and spiritual growth. The podcast has become a beacon for those struggling with post-traumatic stress, life transitions, or loss, providing raw, authentic stories of triumph. Additionally, the ministry engages in international missions, such as Operation Uganda, where they support orphaned and vulnerable children by providing education, nutrition, and community development. Pike's vision is clear: to train and equip people—physically, mentally, and spiritually—to become the warriors God intended, while guiding the lost toward Christ.
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A shining example of Warhorse Ministries' commitment to action came during the tragic Kerrville flood on July 4, 2025. Central Texas was devastated by historic flash flooding along the Guadalupe River, with record rainfall causing the river to rise over 30 feet in hours. The disaster claimed over 100 lives, including many at summer camps, and left communities in ruin. In the face of this catastrophe, Jason Pike and Warhorse Ministries responded with urgency and expertise.
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Leveraging Pike's elite training as a former SEAL and his network of skilled volunteers as well as other organization's, the team deployed to the hardest-hit areas around Kerrville and the Texas Hill Country. They assisted in search and rescue operations, navigating treacherous waters and debris-filled landscapes to locate survivors, and recover the lost to bring them home to their families. Ministry members provided immediate relief—distributing essential supplies, offering emotional and spiritual counseling to grieving families, and coordinating with local authorities for recovery efforts. Their on-the-ground presence brought not only practical aid but also a message of hope amid despair, praying with residents and reminding them of God's presence in the storm. This rapid, selfless response exemplified the ministry's ethos: serving as "warhorses" ready for battle against hardship, armed with faith and determination.
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Warhorse Ministries' efforts in Kerrville highlighted the power of faith-driven organizations in disaster response. Pike's leadership ensured efficient, compassionate support, saving time and resources in a chaotic environment. The experience reinforced the need for prepared, dedicated teams capable of handling future crises.
As Jason Pike and his dedicated team at Warhorse Ministries prepare for potential disasters in 2026 and beyond, the organization is expanding its ministry team by adding 20 new operators. This strategic growth will enhance their ability to deliver greater provisions around the globe—including rapid search and rescue, dive teams, essential aid, and spiritual support—to those in need during crises.
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If you would like to be considered for a position as a Warhorse Operator (SAR specialist), please send an email HERE (admin@warhorsepodcast.com) with your resume, relevant experience, and a brief statement on your commitment to faith-based service. Applications are being reviewed on an ongoing basis.