In the midst of destruction across Kerr County, Texas, a remarkable story of survival is bringing comfort and hope to a community recovering from devastating floods. An eight-year-old girl who had been missing for nearly two days was found alive after being carried more than twelve miles downstream by fast-moving floodwaters.
The region, part of the Texas Hill Country, faced severe weather last week, with torrential rains causing rivers and creeks to overflow. Communities were forced to evacuate, and emergency teams worked tirelessly to assist those in need. Among the missing was young Lila Hartman, last seen playing in her backyard as the rising water reached her neighborhood.
Lila’s disappearance sparked an extensive search effort involving local authorities, rescue teams, volunteers, and even aerial support. For more than 36 hours, crews combed the area by foot, air, and water, holding onto hope despite the difficult conditions.
That hope was realized when search teams spotted movement in a tree well downstream from where she had last been seen. To their astonishment, Lila was found alive—cold, tired, but conscious. She had managed to cling to a tree branch through the night and into the next day, surviving extreme weather and fatigue.
Emergency responders say Lila showed remarkable strength. Though she was treated for mild hypothermia and dehydration, doctors expect her to make a full recovery. Her family expressed deep gratitude to the rescue teams and the community for their support.
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