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Texas native and actor Matthew McConaughey is paying tribute to those who have lost their lives and are reeling from the devastating flash floods in the central part of the state.
The 55-year-old took to social media on July 6 to address the tragic natural disaster, while calling on his fans to offer their support.
“At least 70 lives have been lost, many more are unaccounted for, and countless Texans are hurting—inside and out,” he wrote on Instagram.
“If you’re able, please lend a helping hand where and how you can. It’s gonna be a long road ahead but right now the shock, the pain, and the chaos need the steady hand of a neighbor.”
The “Interstellar” star, who was born in Uvalde, concluded by referring to Texans as “some of the most resilient and generous people on the planet.”
At least 100 people have died over the Fourth of July weekend, after torrential rainfall caused flooding of the Guadalupe River, outside of San Antonio.
Among those killed were 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls, in the Texas Hill Country.
“Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly,” the camp said in a statement.
“We ask for your continued prayers, respect and privacy for each of our families affected. May the Lord continue to wrap His presence around all of us.”
According to the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office, as of 2 p.m. local time on July 7, 56 adults and 28 children have been recovered, while 10 Camp Mystic campers and one counselor remain unaccounted for.
McConaughey joins a growing list of celebrities who are raising attention to the tragedy, including Houston native, singer, and actress Hilary Duff, who also attended summer camp in Texas Hill Country growing up.
“Heartbroken doesn’t begin to cover it. Consumed. Obsessed. Praying for even a shred of a miracle—to find a child alive in the wake of this boundless disaster,” Duff wrote on Instagram.
“Tears fall every time I imagine one of these families receiving bad news … waiting … or entire families lost. Just gone. It’s too much to comprehend.”
Meanwhile, Grammy-award-winning artist Shakira donated proceeds from a San Antonio concert she performed on July 5 through the Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of San Antonio.
“Dear San Antonio, Our hearts and prayers are with those affected by the flood in Central Texas,” the singer wrote on X.
Rescue efforts in central Texas remain underway.
Authorities have also warned residents to brace for flash flooding with additional rainfall on the way.
Elma Aksalic is a freelance entertainment reporter for The Epoch Times and an experienced TV news anchor and journalist covering original content for Newsmax magazine.
