Central Texas, US

Finding refuge after floods

The Hill Country flood memorial wall in Kerrville, Texas

“At 5 in the morning, we were woken up to a sheriff knocking on our door. He told us a few houses down the street was completely swept away by the flood.”

– Skylyn, Airbnb.org guest

Early in the morning on 5 July 2025, Skylyn, her partner and 10-month-old son woke up to water rushing into their home. It was simply raining the night before, and now their front lawn was a rushing river. The record-breaking floods swept away entire homes across central Texas, including their neighbours’.

After the floods in central Texas, you can see the destruction of the trees.

Immediately, Skylyn tried to evacuate with her family, but her truck was stuck in the mud and more than three feet of water. Skylyn learned that Airbnb.org was providing free, emergency housing to those affected by the floods through All Hands and Hearts. She contacted them and was quickly able to book an Airbnb.org stay nearby. This place gave her son space to play and allowed her to figure out next steps.

Skylyn, an Airbnb.org guest, is holding her 10-month-old baby in a chair at the Airbnb they evacuated to from the flood.

Skylyn and her son, Waylon

“It was a big relief to see my son enjoying himself during such a stressful time.”

– Skylyn, Airbnb.org guest

First responders, volunteers and emergency teams quickly mobilised to support those affected across central Texas. These teams are still helping residents recover and prepare to rebuild by clearing mud, debris and waterlogged materials from flood-damaged homes.

A group of volunteers from All Hands and Hearts are cooking in the kitchen of their Airbnb.org stay.

“It’s very difficult to comprehend what 30 feet of water looks like, and then you talk about a 30-foot, literal wall of water coming down the river.”

– Alix, Airbnb.org guest and volunteer

Many volunteers have been working 20-hour days, so staying nearby has been critical. Airbnb.org has been able to house volunteer groups of up to 12 people, ensuring that they can unwind, share meals and recharge together.Airbnb.org has provided free, emergency housing in central Texas to more than 350 guests.