The Texas Governor's Office announced on August 22nd that federal disaster assistance had been granted for 10 additional counties in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. According to the official news release, these counties are now eligible to receive federal support for permanent repair and reconstruction efforts under the FEMA Public Assistance program.
Governor Greg Abbott expressed gratitude, stating, "With the approval of 10 additional counties to the Major Disaster Declaration, Texas communities will be able to access crucial financial assistance to help them move forward in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl." The program assists with repairing public infrastructure including roads, bridges, and utilities. Still waiting for FEMA approval for Public Assistance are six other counties.
The counties that have been added to the declaration include Austin, Brazoria, Colorado, Harris, Jasper, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, San Jacinto, and Wharton. These areas joining 67 other Texas counties have also received approval for emergency work, such as debris removal and emergency protective measures.
Since July, the state has initiated several steps in coping with Hurricane Beryl's impacts, enhancing support to affected communities. Damages caused by the hurricane had Acting Governor Patrick issuing a Disaster Declaration on July 5th for 40 counties, which was soon followed by including 81 additional counties in the declaration. Updates and press conferences have been ongoing throughout the month as the authorities aim to keep the public informed and prepared. Endeavors to promote readiness and coordinate response and recovery operations have materialized in the wake of Beryl's toll on the Texas landscape and its people.
