As Texans grapple with the extreme heat and widespread power outages in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, the American Red Cross has stepped in to provide critical assistance and support.
Responding to a Crisis
In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, nearly 300,000 customers remain without power, and the number of affected individuals is even higher, given the size of many households. The combination of sweltering temperatures and power outages poses significant risks, particularly for the elderly and those dependent on electric medical devices. The Red Cross is urging residents to check on their loved ones and neighbors during this precarious time.
Red Cross Mobilization
Over 600 Red Cross volunteers are actively working with Texas government officials and local partners to deliver aid. Mobile response teams are distributing essential supplies, such as food and water, to communities hit hardest by the hurricane. On Sunday night alone, more than 490 people sought refuge from the heat and storm damage in 16 Red Cross and partner shelters.
Ongoing Support and Assessments
Volunteers are also conducting damage assessments in affected areas to better understand the needs of families in the coming weeks. To date, the Red Cross has served approximately 11,000 hot meals, 1,000 ready-to-eat meals, and distributed over 150 cases of water. Additionally, 1,300 damage assessments have been completed, and 380 clean-up kits have been provided to help households begin their recovery process.
Inclusive Aid
Red Cross shelters are open to everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or citizenship status. All disaster assistance is free, and no identification is required to enter a shelter—only a name and previous address are needed.
People planning to stay in a shelter are encouraged to bring prescription medications, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, and important documents. Additionally, items such as diapers, formula, toys, and specific needs for unique family members should also be packed.
Safety Concerns
With many turning to generators for cooling, emergency responders have reported numerous cases of carbon monoxide poisoning. The Red Cross stresses the importance of using generators and other fuel-burning devices outside, away from windows, doors, and vents. If you feel sick, dizzy, or weak, move to fresh air immediately.
International Aid Efforts
Hurricane Beryl also caused significant damage in the Caribbean, affecting St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Barbados, and Jamaica. Local Red Cross societies are leading the relief efforts in these regions, distributing relief items and providing short-term shelter solutions. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and global Red Cross partners, including the American Red Cross, are supporting these efforts.
American Red Cross crisis responders have been deployed to Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, bringing skills in information management and operations leadership to support on-the-ground relief activities.
Continuing Commitment
The American Red Cross remains committed to supporting Texans as they navigate the challenges following Hurricane Beryl. Their efforts will continue in the weeks and months ahead, ensuring that those affected by this disaster receive the help and resources they need to recover.
