CITY OF BUDA ISSUES DISASTER DECLARATION
DUE TO SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS
BUDA, TX - FEB. 14, 2021 - Mayor Lee Urbanovsky today issued a Local Disaster Declaration due to severe winter weather conditions in Buda. The declaration is in effect immediately for a period of seven (7) days or until winter weather conditions no longer exist.
“I am asking all Buda citizens to stay home, if they can, throughout the duration of this winter storm,” said Mayor Lee Urbanovsky. “Driving conditions are dangerous and we need to make sure the roads are as safe and clear as possible for our first-responders and essential workers. Please stay safe in your homes.”
The issuance of a local or state Disaster Declaration allows public officials to exercise emergency powers to preserve life, property, and public health following a disaster as indicated in the Texas Government Code Ch. 418.
Meanwhile, Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra also issued a Local Disaster Declaration today for Hays County.
“In collaboration with emergency management services in the community, we determined that weather-related conditions pose a significant threat to Hays County citizens and their property,” Becerra said. “Out of an abundance amount of caution, we will take measures to ensure the highest level of response and safety. Thanks to the outpouring of support by our staff and community, we stand vigilant during this time.”
The Buda Police Department has responded to numerous accidents throughout the day due to icy conditions. The City’s Public Works crew has been busy sanding roads in the area, but driving conditions are still dangerous.
Buda Fire and EMS have also responded to several incidents of people falling on slippery sidewalks or surfaces and being taken to the hospital with broken bones. Keep in mind that EMS response times may be severely delayed due to the road conditions and we do not want anyone stuck outside for an extended period time.
Pipe Protection
· Wrap and use heat tape to protect exposed water pipes.
· Drip indoor faucets overnight or when water use is minimal to prevent freezing.
· Once frozen, pipes will not defrost until temperatures rise above freezing for several hours.
· Never use a blow dryer, flame, or heater to defrost frozen pipes as it can cause pipes to burst.
· Know where your water shut off is located in case you need to turn off the water in an emergency
· If you need assistance, contact Buda Public Works at 512-312-2876. After hours, call 512-749-0478.
Pet Safety
It is very important that your pets have appropriate shelter from the freezing temperatures. As part of our Animal Ordinance, we've included the animal care portion below.
•At 32 degrees water bowls will freeze, leaving pets without access to drinkable water
•Without shelter their bodies don't keep heat efficiently from the wind and elements
•Pets can go into shock, get frost bite to their exposed skin, can suffer irreversible organ failure and death
•Do not leave pets in a vehicle
Protect Plants
https://travis-tx.tamu.edu/about-2/horticulture/plant-problems-and-maintenance/frosts-and-freezes/
For the latest on the winter weather you can follow the City of Buda’s social media channels or website at www.ci.buda.tx.us. Please also monitor local weather reports.
