Texas Camp Mystic Flooding Incident
A tragic flooding incident at Camp Mystic in Central Texas has left families devastated and children traumatized. Sixteen-year – old Callie McAlary, who was among those rescued, recounted the chaos that unfolded as a seemingly normal thunderstorm escalated into catastrophic floods. She described how quickly the water rose, leading to frantic attempts by campers to reach safety.
Callie McAlary’s Experience
Callie’s narrative highlights the terrifying moment she realized the gravity of the situation. “We went to bed thinking it was just a normal thunderstorm, ” she stated during an interview on ‘Fox Report’.
However, the situation quickly transformed as lightning struck near her cabin, and water began to surge. Callie’s cabin remained relatively safe, but others were not so fortunate. This incident occurred during what has been classified as a 100-year historic flash flood, which underscores the severity of the weather conditions.
Emotional Toll on Families
The emotional impact of this disaster extends deeply into the families involved. Callie’s mother, Tara Bradburn, expressed her heartache, reflecting on how the camp had been a significant part of their lives since Callie started attending at a young age. She emphasized the importance of Camp Mystic in instilling Texas roots and values in her daughter, despite now living in Virginia. Bradburn’s gratitude towards the camp staff, particularly the Eastland family, was evident as she recognized their efforts to protect the children amid the flooding.
The Night of the Flood
As the chaos unfolded, Callie described the panic among campers when they learned that their cabin was flooding. Many girls were forced to share beds or sleep on the floor due to the rising water levels. In a moment of fear and preparation, Callie even placed a name tag on her body, fearing she might be swept away. This poignant act reflects the sheer terror of the night and the instinct to hold on to identity in the face of disaster.

Aftermath and Ongoing Concerns
In the aftermath of the flooding, families are left grappling with uncertainty and loss. While Callie was safely reunited with her mother, many families are still searching for their loved ones. Bradburn articulated the emotional burden this tragedy has placed on parents, expressing the difficulty of remaining strong for their children while facing such overwhelming grief.
Hope for Missing Campers
Despite the despair, Callie remains hopeful for her friends who are still unaccounted for. She shared her wish that those missing would be found soon, reflecting on the last moments shared with them before the storm. This sentiment resonates with many who are anxiously awaiting news about their loved ones, highlighting the community’s collective hope in a time of crisis. Overall, the events at Camp Mystic serve as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As the search continues for those still missing, the stories of survival and loss continue to unfold.
