In a part of Texas where the South becomes the Southwest, the Hill Country extends over a large area, with lavender fields, vineyards, a constellation of rivers and lakes. The natural splendor of the place and its rustic atmosphere have attracted over the years many people.
But the sudden floods that swept the county of Kerr on Friday were a brutal recall of the danger behind this idyllic region.
The region is also known as “Flash Flood Alley” (the lane flood corridor), due to a recurring threat that has cost the lives and upset communities over the years. A propensity with high levels of precipitation, combined with slim soil, exposed parent rock and steep terrain, makes the region particularly vulnerable.
“It is the most dangerous river valley in the United States,” Kerr Rob Kelly’s county judge on Friday. “We are regularly faced with floods. »»
Photo Carter Johnston, The New York Times
The Guadalupe river out of his bed in Kerrville, Texas
At least 82 people, including 28 children, were killed, according to the authorities, and many others are still missing after the Guadalupe river overflowed from its bed on Friday.
Dramas over the decades
Long -time residents remember that the Guadalupe river rose 9 meters a morning in 1987. Ten adolescents were killed after the bus in which they were was swept away near Comfort, less than 30 km from Kerrville.
In Wimberley, a small town around 90 minutes east of Kerrville, 13 people were killed and hundreds of houses were destroyed or damaged in 2015 when the Blanco River also mounted 9 meters in the space of a few hours.
Photo Carter Johnston, The New York Times
The rubble of a service station destroyed by the Guadalupe river flood
However, the attraction of the region has only increased. Residential subdivisions and sets have emerged as part of the explosive growth that has radiated from the city of Austin in recent years.
The region has long attracted retirees and other people looking for a slightly more rural life. The region is also a destination for camping, hiking, horse riding and other tourism activities.
This attraction is partly explained by an atmosphere that many consider the quintessence of Texas, with dance halls presenting a local version of country music and easy access to nature and large spaces.
Kerr County, which has been devastated by recent floods, is experiencing regular population growth. In Kerrville, chief town of the county, there are barbecues, taquerias, hostels, shops and camping terrains, all located on the winding banks of the Guadalupe river.
This article was published in the New York Times.
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