Governor Abbott Activates Entire Texas National Guard
HOUSTON (AP) — Texas' governor is activating the entire Texas National Guard for search and rescue efforts following Hurricane Harvey, bringing the total deployment to roughly 12,000.
Gov. Gregg Abbott said Monday that it's "imperative we do everything possible" to protect lives. About 3,000 guard members had already been mobilized along the Texas coast.
Abbott says Texas is now activating others who are physically able and not currently deployed elsewhere.
Houston officials say they have rescued more than 2,000 people from flooding in the city. Harvey made landfall on Friday as a Category 4 hurricane.
Houston officials say fire personnel have responded to more than 5,500 calls for service in the city since Harvey began pounding the area this weekend.
Houston Fire Chief Samuel Pena said during a news conference Monday they have responded to more than 5,5000 calls for service over the weekend.
Hundreds of emergency responders from across Texas and beyond are coming to Houston to help with rescue operations.
Mayor Sylvester Turner said at the same news conference that about 5,500 people have moved into city shelters. About half of them are at the George R. Brown Convention Center.
Police Chief Art Acevedo added that police officers from several states will augment Houston police efforts, particularly in light of concerns with looting.
Acevedo said four people had been arrested for looting as of Monday morning.
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