The City of Temple has issued a Disaster Declaration in response to a tornado that ripped through town on Wednesday night.
Emergency responders are currently focusing on life-saving operations amidst a surge in emergency calls. Residents are urged to stay home if possible, as several roads are hazardous, closed, or impassable. At this time, there have been no reports of life-threatening injuries or fatalities.
According to Oncor, nearly 50,000 people in Central Texas are currently without power, with a majority of outages being in Temple.
At a press conference this morning by the city of Temple, Oncor stated that many impacted poles, transformers and generators are expected to need a full rebuild, and urged community members to have patience during prolonged power outages.
The Wilson Recreation Center at 2205 Curtis B. Elliot Dr. is now open as a shelter. For transportation assistance, call 254-298-5682.
To report power outages or downed power lines, visit oncor.com/outages, call 888-313-4747 or text OUT to 66267.
To report fallen trees, call 254-298-5682.
For gas emergencies and leaks, call 911 first, then contact Atmos Gas' emergency line at 866-322-8667.
The city of Temple is receiving recovery support by the Killeen Police Department, U.S. Marshals, Bell County Sheriff’s Department, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Gatesville Police Department, Bell County Emergency Management, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management.
This is a developing story. Stay up to date at KWBU.org.
