FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas — Fort Bend County officials on Friday gave an update on the county's recovery efforts after Hurricane Beryl tore through the region on Monday.
County Judge KP George said that as of around noon on Friday, there were still 52,000 families without power. Officials highlighted shelters where residents can seek relief:
- Fort Bend County Fairgrounds - Building C
- 4310 TX-36 South, Rosenberg, Texas 77471
- Open 24/7 until closed by the county
- Attack Poverty | Friends of North Rosenberg
- 1908 Avenue E, Rosenberg, Texas 77471
- Open 24/7 until closed by the county
Those who need oxygen can get their bottles refilled at the county fairgrounds shelter. The county emphasized that they do not have bottles to distribute, so you must bring your own.
George said county buildings will remain closed and his office will continue to evaluate conditions for when they will be able to reopen.
Carbon monoxide poisoning from generator use remains a concern as thousands are still without power. Since the storm, George said emergency crews have responded to more than 25 calls for carbon monoxide and a total of 41 patients have received treatment. Among those who got treatment was a family of seven.
If you are using a generator, the Fort Bend County Fire Marshal's Office said you should keep them at least 10 feet away from homes.
County officials are in touch with contractors to set up a debris collection plan.
Fort Bend County Emergency Management Coordinator Geg Bapst said the county is moving from emergency mode to recovery mode. He confirmed that the county is included in a federal disaster declaration approved by President Joe Biden.
The Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office said many street lights are still out and urged drivers to be slow and "let workers work."
Officials urged residents to continue reporting damage using the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT).
Watch the full update: