Heavy Rain Leaves a Trail of Destruction and Loss in Texas and New Jersey

In Texas, a sudden downpour turned deadly as heavy rain caused flash floods in Kerr County. The Guadalupe River swelled rapidly, reaching dangerous levels in just a few hours. Authorities confirmed fatalities, but the exact number remains unclear. Rescue teams worked tirelessly, using boats to save those trapped by the fast-moving water. The lack of a warning system left many unprepared for the sudden flood. Governor Greg Abbott assured that state resources were being deployed to help affected communities. The river's rise was so rapid that a gauge measuring its height failed, indicating levels higher than recorded. The floodwaters threatened riverfront communities, including campgrounds and wildlife habitats. Meteorologist Bob Fogarty warned that the water was moving too fast for people to react in time. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, severe thunderstorms claimed at least three lives. Two men died when a tree fell on their vehicle during the storm. The city of Plainfield canceled its Fourth of July celebrations due to the widespread damage. The storms left a trail of destruction, with power outages and downed trees reported across southern New England. Hail and dangerous road conditions were also reported in northeastern Connecticut. The events serve as a stark reminder of nature's power and the importance of being prepared for sudden weather changes.