By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

Less than a month into the 2017 Hurricane season and the third named storm is blowing into South east Texas on Thursday.

The City of Orange released the following statement:

“A tropical storm warning is in effect for Orange County. Tropical Storm Cindy is expected to make landfall as a tropical storm Thursday morning in southeast Texas. Even though the track has shifted west, impacts from the rain, tides, and tornadoes will occur east of the landfall. The area can expect to start feeling the effects of tropical storm force winds as early as Wednesday afternoon through Thursday midday. Tropical Storm Cindy has the potential to produce wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph. These winds could cause scattered power outages, fallen trees, and minor property damage. Tropical Storm Cindy can potentially bring 3 to 5 inches of rain and isolated areas could receive 8 to 10 inches.

Emergency Management Officials recommend staying indoors and away from down power lines and trees.

Additional information will be posted to the City of Orange Facebook page (Orange Texas Gov), online at www.orangetexas.net, and through local media outlets.

City Officials will continue to monitor the situation and will post further updates.”

Texas Department of Public Safety is also closely monitoring the tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico.

“A well-established hurricane plan and complete emergency kit can be lifesavers in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm and we urge Texans to take precautions now,” DPS Sergeant Stephanie Davis said.

Here are several measures residents can take now to prepare for potential storms:

• Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential documents, supplies and provisions.
• Review hurricane evacuation maps, and select a route for you and your family.
• Consider any special needs for individuals with disabilities or the elderly.
• Stay informed about changing weather conditions in and around your area.

If sustained wind speeds reach 44 mph and/or create hazardous driving conditions, the Texas Department of Public Safety will close the Rainbow and Veterans Bridges.

Sand and bags are available at :

Precinct 1 County Maintenance Barn located at North Hwy 87 at North Teal (If bags run out after 3:30 pm bags will not be replenished until the next morning. Only at this barn)

Precinct 3 County maintenance barn located on 2502 West Roundbunch Rd.

Precinct 4 County Maintenance barn 375 Claiborne Street.

Residents are welcome to bag the sand to use to protect their homes from rising water. Bring your own shovel.

For updated information please visit website at http://www.co.orange.tx.us/emergencymanagement.html

Facebook Page, search for: Orange County Office of Emergency Management

Flash flood warnings are in effect from 7 a.m. Wednesday, June 21 – 7 p.m. Thursday, June 22, according to National Weather Service in Lake Charles.