In a statement issued Monday by its spokesman, António Guterres said it was “deeply sad for the tragic loss of life, especially of a large number of children,“During what should have been a moment of celebration.
On Friday, July 4, he marked Independence Day in the United States, a time when families and communities traditionally meet for outdoor celebrations.
The general secretary extended his “more sincere condolences to the families of the victims” and expressed solidarity with all those affected, including the people of Texas and the United States government.
According to media reports, floods, caused by heavy rains during the weekend of July 4, caused mass damage in parts of the Texas center, particularly along the Guadalupe River. The flood hit the mystical camp, killing at least 27 campers and counselors.
Catherine Russell, executive director of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), said in a publication on social networks that “all in UNICEF we are disconsolate in the reports that leave the center of Texas.”
“Our hearts and thoughts are with those loved ones of mourning and those who still expect news of the disappeared, including children.“She said.
Search and recovery efforts continue as the region prepares for more rain, according to media reports.