FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Janet McGuire
Public Affairs Manager
Cell: (727) 967-8351
janet.mcguire@redcross.org
Skype: janet.mcguire4

Red Cross Expanding Assistance to Texans Affected by Recent Storms

Shelters and Evacuation Centers Open throughout Central Texas

Thursday, October 30, 2015…The American Red Cross has expanded its disaster relief and recovery efforts to include helping people affected by the severe weather that swept through Central Texas today. Multiple shelters, evacuation centers and distribution sites have been opened to provide a safe haven from the storm and supplies such as food, water and other available necessities.

Red Cross has been assisting people in South Texas communities such as San Perlita since last week’s torrential rain. Today’s round of storms only exacerbated the devastating challenges that local families face.

Damage from today’s storm is widespread. Counties impacted include Guadalupe, Travis, Hays, Comal, Caldwell and as far north as Navarro County. More flooding is expected in addition to the damage from high winds and possible tornadoes. Levees are threatened in several locations.

Red Cross workers are being sent to each of the affected areas to assess the damage and the needs of the residents. Resources are being dispersed throughout the state. Red Cross workers are preparing to provide comfort and support to all residents impacted by the storms.

Shelters are set up throughout the affected areas. For updated list of shelters, distribution centers and evacuation centers, visit https://redcrosstexasgulfcoast.wordpress.com/

Red Cross urges everyone to download the free Emergency App for weather alerts and to let others know you are safe if severe weather occurs. Find Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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