Governor Abbott Praises Emergency Response To Flooding
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ORANGE (CBSDFW.COM/AP) - Gov. Greg Abbott is praising emergency personnel who have coordinated the evacuation of thousands of people from flooded areas of Southeast Texas.
Abbott said Wednesday in Orange, emergency coordination among local and state agencies helped minimize dangers to residents.
He also thanked Louisiana officials for contributing to the emergency effort.
He warned the Sabine River could continue to rise for another day or two so people must still heed evacuation orders.
The Orange County emergency management office did not have estimates on how many people have been displaced in the county, but said about 9,100 people live in the evacuated areas.
Governor Abbott also added the following counties to the state's disaster declaration: Henderson, Shelby, Smith and Walker counties.
"I want the people of Southeast Texas to know that the state has and will continue to assist them with any and all challenges they have," said Governor Abbott. "Our top priority is to ensure no loss of life. It is important for residents to understand that the rise in water is not over, and I urge you to continue heeding the warnings of local officials. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the first responders and all the volunteer agencies who are helping all those displaced during this challenging time."
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