AUSTIN, Texas – Acting Governor Dan Patrick has expanded the disaster proclamation for Hurricane Beryl, citing the imminent threat of widespread flooding, life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall.
Initially declared on July 5, 2024, the disaster area now includes 91 additional counties, bringing the total to 135 counties under the proclamation.
In the initial proclamation, Patrick highlighted the severe risks posed by Hurricane Beryl to counties such as Aransas, Bexar, Nueces, and others.
The updated declaration now encompasses a significant portion of Texas, including major regions like Dallas, Houston, Austin, and the surrounding areas.
"Given the potential for severe property damage, injury, and loss of life, we are taking every precaution necessary to protect our residents," said Patrick. "The expansion of this disaster declaration allows us to mobilize state resources and waive certain regulatory requirements to expedite our response."
Counties Newly Added to the Disaster Declaration:
Anderson
Angelina
Austin
Bastrop
Bell
Bowie
Brazoria
Brazos
Burleson
Caldwell
Camp
Cass
Chambers
Cherokee
Collin
Colorado
Comal
Dallas
Delta
Ellis
Falls
Fannin
Fayette
Fort Bend
Franklin
Freestone
Galveston
Grayson
Gregg
Grimes
Guadalupe
Hardin
Harris
Harrison
Hays
Henderson
Hill
Hopkins
Houston
Hunt
Jasper
Jefferson
Kaufman
Lamar
Lee
Leon
Liberty
Limestone
Madison
Marion
McLennan
Milam
Montgomery
Morris
Nacogdoches
Navarro
Newton
Orange
Panola
Polk
Rains
Red River
Robertson
Rockwall
Rusk
Sabine
San Augustine
San Jacinto
Shelby
Smith
Titus
Travis
Trinity
Tyler
Upshur
Van Zandt
Walker
Waller
Washington
Williamson
Wood
This expanded declaration allows state agencies and local governments to use all available resources to address the disaster.
It also suspends regulatory statutes that could delay emergency response efforts, ensuring that necessary actions to protect life and property can proceed without bureaucratic hindrance.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed through local news channels and official state communications.
Precautionary measures should be taken, including evacuation if recommended by authorities.
"As we face Hurricane Beryl, the safety and well-being of Texans are our top priorities," Patrick added. "We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary."
For more information and resources on hurricane preparedness, visit the Texas Department of Public Safety's website.
Stay tuned to TXAN 24 News for the latest updates on Hurricane Beryl and its impact across Texas.
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