Perry declares disaster in 40 counties

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Gov. Rick Perry on Thursday issued a state disaster declaration for 40 Texas counties, which will help speed recovery assistance to communities affected by Tropical Storm Hermine, paving the way for state and federal assistance.

The governor also met with local officials and took an aerial tour of areas impacted by the storm, which created tornadoes and dumped up to 15 inches of rain on parts of Central and North Texas, leading to extensive damage and dangerous flash flooding.

“Late yesterday, Tropical Storm Hermine crossed the Texas border into Oklahoma, leaving in its wake serious flooding in Central Texas and tornado damage in Dallas,” Perry said. “Although the rain has subsided, water levels in our state’s creeks and rivers remain high and the danger to our citizens continues, especially near low-water crossings. It is of vital importance that all Texans realize the dangers of crossing flooded roadways and respect the barricades put in place by officials.”

The governor was joined by Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd and Bell County Judge Jon Burrows.

On Wednesday, Perry activated state search and rescue capabilities, including Texas Military Forces personnel and resources, to assist local officials in responding to the storm. These resources include:

• • 48 Texas Military Forces personnel and 10 high profile vehicles
• • 2 Texas Military Forces UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters
• • 4 Texas Task Force 1 swift water rescue teams, comprised of 20 personnel

“Thanks to the heroic actions of our state’s first responders, working in concert with our Division of Emergency Management, multiple rescue operations were completed and many lives saved,” Perry said. “One life lost is one too many, but we are grateful to our brave first responders who risked their own lives to ensure the toll wasn’t even higher.”