(Press Release)

(KILLEEN, TEXAS): The City of Killeen is preparing for potential severe weather this weekend due to Hurricane Ike, projected to hit the Texas coast early Saturday morning. Killeen is expected to experience high winds and heavy rainfall.

Emergency Management Coordinator Chad Berg says the city is prepared to close roads, shelter residents in flooded areas, and dispatch swift water search and rescue teams if necessary.

The citywide emergency warning siren system and countywide reverse 9-1-1 system, designed to alert households in specific areas of emergency, are fully operational. The city’s government access channel on Time Warner Cable Channel 10 will post severe weather safety tips and other pertinent information for residents.

James Butler, Director of Public Works, says that city utilities staff have been placed on alert for this weekend. Emergency generators are available at key facilities and preloaded equipment and materials are positioned at locations prone to flooding. Elevated water storage tanks stand ready to meet water demands in the event of power loss.

Residents should pay attention to weather updates as Hurricane Ike approaches and take appropriate safety precautions before severe weather strikes. Emergency kits containing first aid, cash, a flashlight, extra medications, toiletries, important documents, and food and water supplies should be kept on hand. Residents should ensure that they have a reliable method of receiving weather information, such as a battery powered radio, and a designated shelter area such as a basement or interior hallway. Residents can prepare their homes for high winds by securing lightweight objects such as trash cans and outdoor furniture.

For more emergency preparedness information and severe weather safety tips, residents can visit www.readykilleen.org.