SMITH COUNTY, Texas — Disaster declarations have been issued for both Smith and Henderson counties following Thursday night's severe storms.
The declarations issued by Smith County Judge Neal Franklin and Henderson County Judge Wade McKinney allows officials and emergency management personnel to access additional resources to support operational needs.
"The severe storm that blew through the Bullard and Emerald Bay area at around 8 p.m. on May 23, left dozens of homes affected and many more residents with large amounts of debris," Smith County Emergency Management Coordinator Brandon Moore said.
There are shelter locations open for both counties for those in need:
- Bullard Southern Baptist Church - 716 N. Houston St
- Henderson County Senior Center - 3344 TX-31 , Athens, TX
- Coffee City Civic Building
Starting on Monday, May 27, a recovery center will be open at Bullard City Hall. Services available will include assistance programs from the Red Cross and other nonprofit organizations, such as the United Way of Smith County.
Residents affected by this storm are urged to complete the Texas Division of Emergency Management damage assessment form to report their damage.