As authorities launch one of the largest search-and-rescue efforts in recent Texas history, they have come under intensifying scrutiny over preparations and why residents and youth summer camps that are dotted along the river were not alerted sooner or told to evacuate.

Authorities in Texas say more than 50 people have died in devasting flooding in Texas. They include a 68-year-old camp director, an Alabama elementary student away for the summer and a woman who had been reported missing in San Angelo.

Torrential rains triggered flash flooding in central Texas Friday, killing more than 40 people, including children.