A devastating flood in Texas has left a 94-year-old grandmother and her family grappling with the loss of their cherished home. Betty Matteson and her loved ones were forced to flee to the attic of their three-story house as the rising waters of the Guadalupe River surged to nearly 30 feet, ultimately inundating their residence in Hunt, Texas.
The Matteson family has a long history with the property, known as “Casa Del Rio,” where they have gathered since 1968 for celebrations and cherished memories. Just days before the flooding, they had come together to celebrate the Fourth of July, a tradition marked by laughter and joy. As Betty recalled, “It is a special place to my children and grandchildren and all the friends that have come.”
The flooding event, which has been described by Texas Governor Greg Abbott as a 1-in-100-year occurrence, has resulted in the deaths of more than 120 people, with at least 150 still reported missing. The floods have devastated communities across central Texas, with the situation exacerbated by heavy rainfall from slow-moving thunderstorms.
After enduring hours of uncertainty in the attic, help arrived for Betty and her family, who were eventually rescued. Tragically, their home did not survive. “The land didn’t just flood; it became a collection point for destruction from all directions,” said Shannon Swindle, Betty’s granddaughter. She has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the family as they face the daunting task of rebuilding.
The Matteson home was severely damaged, requiring extensive repairs that the family estimates could reach up to $500,000. Without flood insurance—an expense that Betty described as “nearly impossible” to afford—the family is now uncertain about their future. “I’ve just been holding on for dear life,” she said, reflecting on the emotional ties to the land where her husband and family members are buried.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), only 4% of homes nationwide have flood insurance, and this number is even lower in areas like Kerr County, where just 2% of residents are covered. The US Geological Survey has reported an increase in flash flooding occurrences in the Guadalupe River basin over the past two decades, highlighting a troubling trend linked to climate change.
Despite the risks, the family is resolute in their desire to rebuild. “If it’s something that you love so much and so dearly, there’s so many memories that saying goodbye is almost not an option,” Swindle expressed tearfully. Her brother, Barry Adelman, who was present during the flood, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their family heritage and identity.
While the family remains hopeful for assistance from FEMA, they recognize that any financial aid will likely fall short of the actual rebuilding costs. As they navigate the complexities of recovery, Betty is currently staying with her daughter, Sherry Matteson, who remains optimistic about finding a way to restore their home. “You can’t live your life afraid of what might happen. You have to live your life the best you can,” Sherry stated firmly.
The Matteson family’s determination to rebuild, despite the overwhelming challenges, underscores a profound connection to their home and the memories it holds. They face an uncertain future, but their commitment to preserving their family legacy remains unwavering.