TEXAS – The judge for the largest county in Texas said that the time has come to take refuge and that residents of Houston and its surroundings should prepare for a few days “very uncomfortable”.
Lina Hidalgo, Harris County judge, which covers Houston and other municipalities, ruled this Sunday in a press conference that people should not leave and that several roads in the southwest of the county they had already been accident sites.
“Do not go out for any reason, the roads are already compromised and the risk is enormous” , said Hidalgo .
Another warning that Hidalgo stressed was the possibility of blackouts in the coming days.
“We do not know exactly how much snow will fall, or how severe the effects of the storm will be, but the possibility of blackouts is very possible “, added the judge.
” If there are blackouts in your area, do not leave your houses, it is better to stay at home warm with a jacket s and blankets to get trapped in a vehicle in the elements, ”he explained.
The judge declared a Declaration of Disaster in Harris County that allows authorities to respond to the different situations that may arise. present during the risk period.
BREAKING: I’ve signed a disaster declaration for Harris County to give our emergency officials the flexibility to utilize every available resource to respond to this historic weather. This is the beginning of an incredibly challenging few days for our region. Stay safe out there. pic.twitter.com/iX2TzI9ETG
– Lina Hidalgo (@LinaHidalgoTX) February 14, 2021
Hidalgo mentioned that on Monday By morning many roads will be closed and rescue teams will be limited to respond.
On Sunday night the authorities already reported vehicles involved in accidents due to the accumulation of ice in the downtown area and south of the city.
Before 7pm the electricity company Center Point Energy reported 22, 000 users south of Seally and northwest Harris County without service.
ATTENTION NORTH AND NORTHWEST HARRIS COUNTY: Roadways may be dangerous due to freezing conditions. Stay home and avoid unnecessary travel. Leave the roads clear for emergency vehicles.
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Text FREEZE to 888777 for updates. # IceIceMaybe pic.twitter. com / wzahHkGelu
– Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (@ReadyHarris) February 14, 2021