Thaindian News

BELTON, TEXAS (BNO NEWS) – Texas Governor Rick Perry on Thursday issued a disaster declaration for 40 counties which were affected by tropical storm Hermine.

The declaration will help speed recovery aid to families and communities affected by Hermine by opening the door to state and federal assistance. Perry also met with local officials and took an aerial tour of areas impacted by the storm.

“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.

Tropical storm Hermine created tornados and dumped up to 12 inches of rain on parts of Central and North Texas, leading to extensive damage and dangerous flash flooding. The governor was joined in the aerial tour by Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd and Bell County Judge Jon Burrows.

“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 Texas governor said.

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, including two military UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and 1 swift water rescue team.

“Thanks to the heroic actions of our state’s first responders multiple rescue operations were completed and many lives saved. 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,” Perry added.