WATCH: Governor Greg Abbott issues disaster declarations to 17 Texas counties
AUSTIN, Texas -- Texas Governor Greg Abbott assured Texans the state's power grid is fully functional and continues to be reliable.
Abbott provided an update on the severe weather impacting Texas Thursday at the Alternate State Operations Center in Austin.
"The State of Texas has deployed a plethora of resources to ensure our communities have the support they need to respond to this storm," said Governor Abbott. "Texas is experiencing one of the most significant ice events in decades, but we have taken unprecedented steps to ensure that our power grid continues to function reliably despite treacherous weather conditions. As we continue to face freezing temperatures, precipitation, and other dangerous elements, I urge Texans to be prepared and heed the guidance of their local officials as we all work together to keep people safe."
Texans are encouraged to check road conditions at drivetexas.org. If you're stranded, call 1-800-525-5555 for assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Abbott said there are reports of localized power outages. He said 10,000 linemen are on the round to assist with 2,000 more linemen deployed from outside of the state.
Texas who experience a water line break should turn the water off on their street and report it to their provider immediately.
Visit www.tceq.texas.gov for information on how to turn the water off in the event of a line break.
The Texas Division of Emergency Management reported that mass care teams continue to support local communities. There are 185 warming centers open across the state, with 156 on standby. For more information, Texans can visit TDEM's webpage dedicated to winter storm resources.
The Governor was expected joined by representatives from:
- Texas Division of Emergency Management
- ERCOT, Public Utility Commission of Texas
- Railroad Commission of Texas
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
- Texas Department of Public Safety
- Texas Military Department
- Texas A&M Forest Service
- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
- Texas Department of Transportation
- Texas Department of State Health Services
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
