An unauthorized drone operating in restricted airspace collided with a helicopter engaged in emergency operations in Kerr County, Texas, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency landing. The incident, which occurred on 7/7, has grounded a vital piece of disaster response equipment until further notice, according to a statement from the Kerrville City Hall.

City officials described the incident as "completely preventable" due to pre-existing flight restrictions. "These rules are in place to protect lives during emergencies. Operating a drone in a restricted area not only breaks the law but also puts emergency responders, rescue teams, and residents in extreme danger," the Kerrville City Hall stated.

Authorities have urged residents to refrain from using drones following the collision.

A helicopter participates in search and rescue efforts along the Guadalupe River after the flash flood on 4/7. Photo: AP

A helicopter participates in search and rescue efforts along the Guadalupe River after the flash flood on 4/7. Photo: AP

The Kerr County Sheriff's Office also requested private boat owners to avoid the Guadalupe River and its tributaries to prevent interference with search and rescue teams.

The flash flood occurred on 4/7 when months' worth of rain fell on Texas in a matter of hours, mostly overnight. This caused the Guadalupe River to rise rapidly, sweeping through summer camps along its banks and causing significant damage.

As of the afternoon of 7/7, at least 104 people have died in the disaster, according to Texas officials. Kerr County suffered the most casualties, with 84 fatalities.

President Donald Trump called the flash flood a "once-in-a-100-year tragedy that no one anticipated." He declared a major disaster in Kerr County to allocate federal resources to support the area.

Huyen Le (Newsweek, Fox News, AFP)