Search Underway for 10-Year-Old Girl Swept Away by Floodwaters in Brenham, Texas as Severe Weather Threatens More Danger
Brenham, TX — Emergency response teams in Brenham, Texas are intensifying their efforts to locate a 10-year-old girl who was tragically swept away by fast-moving floodwaters on Monday evening. The incident comes as the region grapples with a wave of severe weather that has already triggered widespread flooding, property damage, and dangerous travel conditions across several counties.
According to officials, the young girl was reported missing after she was caught in the sudden and powerful surge of water near a low-lying area while attempting to escape the flooding. The waters rose rapidly, catching many off guard. Witnesses said the child had been near a creek swollen by relentless rain when the incident occurred. Despite immediate efforts by nearby adults to rescue her, the strong current proved too overwhelming.
“We are doing everything we can to bring her home,” said Washington County Emergency Management Coordinator Bryan Ruemke. “Multiple agencies are involved in the search, including local fire departments, the sheriff’s office, and Texas Task Force 1. We’ve deployed boats, drones, and K-9 search units along the waterways.”
The National Weather Service had issued flash flood warnings for parts of southeast Texas, including Washington County, hours before the incident. In some areas, rainfall totals reached upwards of six inches within a short period, overwhelming drainage systems and submerging roads.
“This is a stark reminder of how dangerous floodwaters can be, especially when they rise so quickly,” said meteorologist Mark Rigsby from CBS-affiliated KHOU 11. “Even shallow water can sweep people off their feet, and vehicles can be carried away in just a foot or two of moving water.”
Brenham, located about 75 miles northwest of Houston, has seen significant impacts from the storm system that has been sweeping through the central and southern parts of the state. Local officials are urging residents to remain vigilant, avoid flooded roadways, and heed all emergency alerts and warnings.
As the search continues into its second day, officials say conditions remain treacherous. More rain is in the forecast, with forecasters warning that already-saturated grounds will only increase the flood risk over the next 48 hours.
“We’re in a very fragile window right now,” said Ruemke. “The search is urgent not just because of time but because of worsening weather. We’re asking the public to stay away from search areas and let our crews work safely.”
In response to the situation, the Brenham Independent School District issued a statement expressing concern and offering counseling services for students and staff affected by the incident. “Our hearts go out to the family of the missing student,” the district said in part. “We are all hoping for her safe return.”
Community members have begun organizing prayer vigils and support efforts for the family of the missing girl. Volunteers are assisting with food and supplies for first responders. Many have also taken to social media to express their sorrow, hope, and calls for resilience in the face of nature’s fury.
As Texas continues to confront the escalating impacts of climate-related extreme weather events, this heartbreaking incident underscores the critical importance of preparedness, public education, and infrastructure planning.
Authorities are asking anyone with information or footage that may assist in the search—particularly residents with security cameras near flood-prone areas—to contact local law enforcement.
This is a developing article, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.