A devastating flood in Texas has forced 94-year-old Betty Matteson and her family to confront the loss of their cherished home. The flooding, which occurred on July 4, 2023, inundated their property near the Guadalupe River, destroying the house where generations of family gatherings took place. More than 120 people have died due to the flooding, and at least 150 are still missing, highlighting the gravity of this disaster.
The Matteson family has deep roots in the Texas Hill Country. Since 1968, they have celebrated milestones, including weddings and holidays, at what they affectionately call “Casa Del Rio.” The house became a haven for family members, who have enjoyed countless summers tubing on the river and hiking the surrounding cliffs. Tragically, this history was threatened when the river surged to nearly 30 feet due to relentless storms, flooding neighborhoods and camps.
On that fateful morning, as waters began to rise, Betty, her family, and two pets sought refuge in the attic of their home. After hours of distress, first responders managed to rescue them, but the house was left severely damaged. “The land didn’t just flood; it became a collection point for destruction,” noted Shannon Swindle, Betty’s granddaughter, in a GoFundMe campaign aimed at raising funds for recovery.
The family faces daunting financial challenges in rebuilding their home. The estimated cost to restore the property could reach up to $500,000, and they did not have flood insurance, which FEMA reports is only held by 4% of homeowners nationwide. In Kerr County, the hardest hit area, just 2% of residents have flood coverage, rendering many vulnerable to such disasters.
Betty explained that the premiums for flood insurance were prohibitive; she could not afford the estimated $6,000 to $8,000 per year. Despite these financial hurdles, the family is determined to rebuild, motivated by the memories and love tied to the home. “I’ve just been holding on for dear life because it was just an exceptionally beautiful, calming, peaceful place,” she expressed.
The frequency of flash flooding in areas like the Guadalupe River basin has increased significantly over the last two decades, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Governor Greg Abbott described the recent flooding as a “1-in-100-year event,” but experts warn that such occurrences are becoming more common due to climate change.
While acknowledging the risks of future flooding, Betty’s family remains resolute. “If it’s something that you love so much and so dearly, saying goodbye is almost not an option,” Shannon shared. Barry Adelman, Betty’s grandson, echoed this sentiment, stating that the home is integral to his identity and that he wishes future generations to experience the same joy he did.
As the family navigates the recovery process, they are hopeful for assistance from FEMA. However, they are realistic about the likelihood that federal aid will cover only a fraction of the rebuilding costs. Betty is currently staying with her daughter as they assess their options.
Despite the uncertainty, Sherry Matteson, Betty’s daughter, remains optimistic about the future. “You can’t live your life afraid of what might happen. You have to live your life the best you can,” she stated, reinforcing the family’s commitment to rebuilding their legacy, come what may.