Following regional flooding over the July 4 weekend, Kendall County officials and staff continue to work with area partners on search and rescue efforts. Operations are scheduled to continue along the Guadalupe River throughout the county.

On July 8, the Kendall County Office of Emergency Management and Fire Marshal announced Kendall County’s recovery toll has risen to seven individuals. With an increased presence of emergency responders, residents are encouraged to avoid active search areas.

What’s happening?

Additional crews are entering the county to provide search and rescue support near the Guadalupe River, resulting in some areas remaining closed to the public.

Residents with drones are asked to keep devices grounded until search and rescue options are complete, due to the possibility of drone interference with airspace.

Kendall County Commissioners reinstated the burn ban for the entire county July 8. The ban is intended for at least two weeks to limit the burning of flood debris and reduce smoke, which could lead to search and rescue complications, County Judge Shane Stolarczyk said.

While Gov. Greg Abbott listed Kendall County in his disaster declaration, county officials continued to search for resources and assistance in repairing any potential damage.

To determine the full extent of damages caused by flooding, infrastructure will have to be evaluated and monitored for up to six months or longer, Precinct 3 Commissioner Richard Chapman said.What they’re saying

County commissioners and Judge Stolarczyk highlighted the work of county staff and community members who dedicated time and resources to recovery efforts. Through emergency systems and efforts from all involved, further damage to Kendall County was mitigated.

“While we plan and prepare for emergencies as a county, it takes extraordinary coordination and resilience to put those plans into action when disaster strikes,” Stolarczyk said.

Each commissioner echoed support for first responders and donations, and Precinct 2 Commissioner Andra Wisian encouraged the community to continue looking for ways to support those affected by the flooding.

“There’s lots of ways to help, and just continue to pray for miracles and healing and comfort in a very sad time,” Wisian said.

Get involved

Across the state, donation efforts have come together to raise food, money and other resources for flooded areas.

In Kendall County, local municipalities are coming together to support the region. On July 7, the city of Boerne published a fact sheet for residents to learn more about the city’s plan moving forward.