Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, has rolled out emergency support for communities affected by deadly flash floods in central Texas by providing free internet connectivity to rescue teams and impacted residents.

The catastrophic floods, which hit the region on July 5, have so far claimed at least 50 lives, with dozens still unaccounted for.

The hardest-hit area is Kerr County, where 43 deaths have been confirmed, including 15 children. Officials also remain deeply concerned about 27 girls missing from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp that was struck by a sudden surge of water.

In response, Starlink announced that it is distributing its compact “Starlink Mini” kits to emergency responders working in devastated zones where traditional communication networks are down due to extensive infrastructure damage.

“These portable kits are keeping rescue operations online in areas where connectivity is otherwise unavailable,” the company said. “Starlink is also offering one month of free internet to thousands of affected customers, including those who had previously paused their service and now need it restored.”

Rescue crews are combing through submerged and debris-filled areas using helicopters, boats, and drones as they search for survivors.

With many roads impassable and communication lines severed, response efforts have been significantly hampered making reliable internet a crucial asset for coordination and life-saving work.

Governor Greg Abbott has extended the state’s disaster declaration to cover more counties, including Travis County, about 130 miles northeast of the flood zone.

Starlink’s technology designed to deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband via a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites has proven effective in disaster scenarios.

Unlike traditional satellite internet systems that rely on fewer, higher-altitude satellites, Starlink’s LEO-based model ensures stronger and faster connections.

Its dish terminals, often referred to as “Starlink Kits,” automatically align with satellites to maintain uninterrupted service even in remote or disaster-stricken locations.

This isn’t the first time Starlink has stepped in during a crisis. The company has previously provided critical internet access during emergencies in Ukraine, Hawaii, and other areas facing communication blackouts.

For many rural Texans who had suspended their Starlink service before the disaster, the free reactivation is a vital link to emergency alerts, loved ones, and recovery resources.

As rescue efforts continue and the death toll potentially rises, Starlink’s timely intervention is helping emergency teams stay connected, deliver aid, and save lives in areas most in need.