The winter storm shutting down schools, roads and government facilities has led Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell to issue a disaster declaration due to the severe weather conditions.

According to a news release, the declaration activates the recovery and rehabilitation aspects of the Williamson County Emergency Management Plan and allows the county to take all legal actions necessary to protect the health, safety and welfare of residents.

“We have seen in the past how an ice storm can linger and cause disruption and damage to people’s lives, so we want to be sure that we have all the resources necessary to assist if needed,” Gravell said in the release.

The county is asking residents to stay off the road, reporting an increase in icy conditions and blocked roads due to falling tree limbs. Road crews were out early Feb. 1 clearing limbs and sanding roads. Residents can also report property damage due to the winter storm at tdem.texas.gov.

Several power outages west of I-35 in Georgetown have been reported due to ice accumulation and downed power lines. As of 9:58 a.m., Feb. 1, a total of 38 outages were reported to Georgetown Utility Systems, affecting nearly 3,000 homes. Residents may report an outage by calling 512-930-3640. Reports and a map of current outages can also be found at gus.georgetown.org.