County To Close Offices on Tuesday, Recommends Businesses to Do the Same

From the Fayette County Office of Emergency Management:

For immediate release​

February 15, 2021

Government offices will be closed Tuesday, Feb. 16, due to the winter storm affecting the area and county leaders are encouraging non-essential businesses to do the same.  Local officials continue to monitor the wintry conditions impacting Fayette and surrounding counties and are urging people to stay off the road if possible. 

“The winter storm continues to cause major disruptions for public and private organizations throughout the county and throughout the state.   Rolling power outages have been instituted state-wide and limited power line problems have been experienced throughout the county as well due to wind, ice, and high demand. Crews from Fayette County Electric, Bluebonnet Electric and LCRA are working around the clock to minimize outages,” said Craig Moreau, chief of emergency management.

“We are expecting the winter conditions to continue throughout the early part of the week, with increasing chances for wintry precipitation Tuesday night -Wednesday night. Travel remains very difficult and dangerous and we are urging people to stay off the roads,” he said.

Moreau said a virtual EOC has been stood up in the event sheltering is needed. Short term power outages can cause problems for citizens without alternative heating sources and frozen water lines could become a growing problem over the next few days.

“I know it’s cold but remember there should never be a wood or charcoal fire inside a home unless it’s in a properly vented chimney. Be aware of carbon monoxide hazards heating a home. Propane and natural gas heaters that are rarely used can pose multiple hazards including fire and carbon monoxide. Any odd colors or non-uniform patterns to gas appliances flames should be an indication to discontinue the use of the appliance until a tech can evaluate the safety,” he said.

“I want to express my gratitude to our dispatchers, our first responders and our line crews. Every day, all day, they are a lifeline to our residents. So help them help you – stay home.”