City officials in Austin are
preparing for the impact Harvey will make as it moves in from the coast. That includes coming up with evacuation plans and putting crews on alert.
The Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center activated this morning at 6 a.m. and will have the power to dispatch crews. It will remain open until it's no longer needed.
Austin Mayor Steve Adler says the city is closely monitoring Harvey and working with state and regional partners which includes sheltering evacuees.
On the roads, the Texas Department of Transportation says crews will help clear streets so emergency responders can actually get through.
The Austin Fire Department says 18 of its first responders are now part of Task Force One. That includes four helicopter rescue swimmers, seven urban search and rescue experts and a seven person boat squad. Some will stay in the area while others will head to different parts of the state that will be affected. Division Chief Palmer Buck will assist as boat manager in Corpus Christi.
Williamson County is also standing by ready to deploy resources. Sheriff Robert Chody said over Twitter that its hovercraft is ready to go. He also says the department will increase its staff and water rescue teams on call.
Officials also say this is a good time for everyone at home
to sign up for WarnCentralTexas. That way you'll get emergency alerts via text, email or phone which includes evacuations and shelter info.
From Community Impact Newspaper's reporting partner, Fox 7