Local Facebook page helps locate missing man and dog during Texas flooding

In the wake of catastrophic flooding that struck the Hill Country of Texas, Rebecca Johnston faced worrying uncertainty about her father, Mark Johnston, who had gone missing. Mark, along with his dog Buddy, was located in Hunt, Texas, leaving his family concerned, especially Rebecca, who resides over a thousand miles away in Fort Collins, Colorado. As floodwaters raged, Rebecca turned to social media for assistance, posting a heartfelt plea on a local Facebook group called Kerrville Breaking News, which boasts a membership of around 55,000. Her message invited anyone with information about Mark and Buddy to share what they knew, as she struggled to reach him by phone. The power of social media became evident as responses began to pour in, with several individuals claiming they’d seen Mark on local news outlets. Encouraged by the support and information from the online community, Rebecca felt a sense of hope amidst the chaos of rising waters. Ultimately, her father managed to contact the family, leading to a wave of relief. In a follow-up post, she informed the group that Mark and Buddy were safe and well, prompting a flurry of positive reactions, including prayer emojis and expressions of gratitude from those who had shared her original plea. This incident highlights the increasing role of social media in crisis situations, similar to its impactful use during the Louisiana flooding in 2016 when citizens organized rescue efforts and formed what is known today as the Cajun Army. Overall, the community's willingness to share and support each other showcased the strength of collective action in times of disaster, providing hope and assistance to those affected.