News Summary
Williamson County, Texas, has been included in the updated Presidential Disaster Declaration by Governor Greg Abbott following severe flooding. Residents affected by the July 5 disaster can access FEMA disaster assistance. The county commissioners approved an additional 60-day local state of disaster and allocated $200,000 in landfill vouchers for clean-up support. Community efforts are also underway to assist affected residents, highlighting the resilience of the community during this challenging time.
Williamson County, Texas – The Williamson County Office of Emergency Management announced that Governor Greg Abbott has included the county in the updated Presidential Disaster Declaration following the severe flooding that occurred on July 5. This declaration will provide necessary federal assistance to residents recovering from the disaster.
Residents affected by the flood can now apply for FEMA disaster assistance by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362. The extension allows individuals to access financial support as they begin their recovery efforts.
During a special meeting on July 11, the Williamson County Commissioners Court approved the extension of the local state of disaster for an additional 60 days. In support of flood clean-up, the commissioners allocated up to $200,000 in landfill vouchers, each valued at up to $500, to assist residents in the disposal of damaged property.
Judge Steve Snell underscored the significance of the disaster declaration extension and the issuance of cleanup vouchers as crucial components for aiding resident recovery. The recent flooding caused extensive damage across Williamson County, including loss of life and homes.
The San Gabriel River reached dangerously high levels during the July 5 flood, prompting multiple evacuations and leading to confirmed fatalities. Among the victims were three individuals, including Kaitlyn Swallow (22) and Sherry Merlene Richardson (64), with one person remaining unidentified. This unprecedented disaster has left numerous families grappling with the loss of their homes and personal belongings.
Local residents have come together to support those affected, with various initiatives underway to provide donations and assistance. Community efforts have included setting up a benefit concert for the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, which is scheduled for Sunday at the Long Center for the Performing Arts with a “pay what you want” entry fee.
Leander Mayor Christine DeLisle described the floodwaters as having reached record levels, marking a significant event in her 15 years of living in the area. In response, a candlelight vigil for the flood victims is planned for Saturday at 8 p.m. at the Austin Community College – Leander Campus.
As part of ongoing support initiatives, Travis County officials have established a Flood Resource Recovery Center that provides meals, showers, cleaning supplies, and health screenings to affected individuals. Community shuttle services have also been introduced to assist residents in heavily impacted areas.
Travis County has taken further steps to facilitate debris management by opening a dumpster for Sandy Creek residents and waiving drop-off fees at local collection centers for debris disposal. Beginning July 14, the county will initiate curbside pickup of flood debris from designated neighborhoods, requiring specific sorting of the material.
In light of health and safety concerns, an executive order has been issued to ban all recreational, commercial, and navigational activities on Lake Travis until further notice. This decision was made to protect the health of the community following the extensive flooding.
Additionally, President Trump has approved Texas’s request to extend federal disaster declarations to include more counties, making them eligible for direct financial assistance in the recovery process. Community assessments are actively being conducted to evaluate the damage and better understand the needs of those adversely affected by the floods.
The response efforts continue as Williamson County faces the aftermath of this disaster, highlighting the resilience and unity of the community in supporting one another during this challenging time.
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Additional Resources
- KXAN News – Lost Everything
- Google Search: Central Texas Flood
- Community Impact – FEMA Aid Extended
- Wikipedia: 2023 Texas Floods
- LH Independent – Flood Recovery Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Williamson County Flood
- KVUE News – Central Texas Flood Recovery
- Google Scholar: Texas Flooding
- KXAN News – Presidential Disaster Declaration
- Google News: Texas Flood Recovery
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