UPDATE 2-14-21:
Gov. Greg Abbott announces that the Biden administration has approved Texas' Federal Emergency Declaration in response to the severe winter weather throughout the state. The declaration will authorize the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide Direct Federal Assistance and emergency protective measures for mass care and sheltering for all 254 counties in Texas.
ORIGINAL STORY 2-13-21:
Governor Greg Abbott gave an update to Texans on Saturday afternoon as the state prepares for extremely low temperatures across the state.
Many road closures and dangerous conditions are expected following the snow and ice predicted throughout Texas. The governor announced that he will make a request to the White House for a Federal Emergency Declaration to make resources available to Texas communities affected by extreme winter weather.
"Every part of the state will face freezing conditions over the coming days, and I urge all Texans to remain vigilant against the extremely harsh weather that is coming," said Governor Abbott.
Abbott urged Texans to stay off the roads and conserve energy as power companies prepare to assist in potential power outages.
You can help power companies by unplugging devices when not in use, closing windows and blinds, and adjusting thermostats to 68 degrees or below. Texas residents are asked to avoid heating their homes with ovens or stovetops and only use generators or grills outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Thirty-four warming centers have been established in communities across the state, and various other resources have been given to local officials to help their communities. The Texas Department of Transportation began pre-treating roads this past Tuesday and will continue to treat roads in the coming days.
