News Flash

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- August 26, 2020 --

Nacogdoches Emergency Management team shares key messages as Hurricane Laura approaches the local area.

Hurricane Laura, now an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane, is anticipated to reach Nacogdoches around 0200, Thursday, Aug 27. Tropical storm-force winds can be expected for many hours. As the community prepares for severe weather conditions and potential damage, the Emergency Management team wishes to share the following key points:

Staging

City and County facilities have staged supplies, fueled generators, and scheduled staff to ensure overnight availability and response. Additionally, ONCOR has readied personnel and equipment to rapidly deploy to our area and restore electricity if necessary.

NacWise

NacWise Alert, a mass notification service, allows city officials to send personalized messages to City of Nacogdoches residents quickly and efficiently. Residents are encouraged to sign up for notifications through the NacWise Alert Portal (ci.nacogdoches.tx.us/1150/NacWise-Alert).

Hotline

Persons with non-emergent questions or concerns related to the hurricane should call 936-468-4787 or 936-559-2510. The hotline will be manned 24 hours throughout the emergency. As always, emergencies should be directed to 9-1-1.

Road Obstructions

County residents can report road obstructions to the Road & Bridge Department during normal working hours at 936-560-7802. Additionally, Nacogdoches Police Department dispatch will accept reports any hour at 936-559-2607. Road closures will be shared frequently.

Shelters

The Nacogdoches County Civic Center operates on a point-to-point contract with Newton and Jasper counties and is not a walk-up shelter. Run by the American Red Cross, the shelter is prepared to support a limited number of displaced evacuees from Jasper and Newton counties while maintaining COVID-19 standards. Local shelters may be made available to only Nacogdoches residents if major or long-term damage occurs.

Volunteers

Nacogdoches is incredibly grateful for individuals and businesses willing to contribute their time and efforts. However, at this time, no volunteers or donations are needed.

Garbage Pickup

Depending on storm conditions, Nacogdoches City residential trash collection may be delayed.

Office Closures

The Nacogdoches County Courthouse and City of Nacogdoches offices will be closed Thursday, Aug 27. Essential services will remain available to respond to the community’s needs.

Citizens are strongly encouraged to find a safe place to stay throughout this emergency. Continue to monitor weather conditions via reliable, local sources and follow local directives.