Gov. Abbott issues disaster declarations for Williamson, Bell counties after Tuesday's tornado

View The Original Article Here

Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell said 15 structures were damaged, but added no serious injuries were reported in the county.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas — On Thursday, Gov. Greg Abbott issued disaster declarations for Williamson and Bell counties after a tornado touched down in those areas on Tuesday.

According to a release from Abbott’s office, residents who experienced damage as a result of Tuesday’s severe weather are encouraged to report damages to the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s (TDEM) iSTAT survey. Reporting damage to TDEM is voluntary, is not a substitute for reporting damage to an insurance agency and does not guarantee disaster relief status. Abbott’s office said the survey helps emergency management officials gain an understanding of damages that occurred during the severe weather.

On Wednesday, leaders in Williamson County issued a weeklong disaster declaration following a damage assessment after the tornado touched down in the area Tuesday.

The county’s Office of Emergency Management conducted the assessment and found that 15 structures were damaged near the Florence area.

“We are grateful that we did not have any serious injuries due to the storm in our county, but our prayers are with the families in Bell County who did experience tremendous loss,” County Judge Bill Gravell said.

The declaration makes it possible for the emergency office to authorize the furnishing of aid and assistance. While the declaration is meant to be active for seven days, the commissioner’s court can extend it.

[embedded content]