Story Created:
Aug 19, 2008 at 6:18 PM CST
Story Updated:
Aug 19, 2008 at 10:08 PM CST
Wichita County officials took a helicopter ride to assess flood damage. The chopper came from the Department of Public Safety from Dallas. Lindsey Rogers and KAUZ photographer Abbie Carter were also able to get an ariel view of the damage.
From up above, I had a birds-eye view of homes surrounded by floodwaters. Wichita County Judge Woody Gossom says this year's flood is much different than last summer because the high water isn't in the traditional flooding areas. Much of it is on flat land, not directly next to a creek or river.
He says it looks like 30-to 50 homes around FM 3-90 between Iowa Park, Wichita Falls and Burkburnet have water in them. Several out buildings are also underwater and a number of county roads are still impassable.
"The water's going to drain for a while. It's gone down in a lot of places but it's still dangerous in many areas. So you need to be very careful," Judge Gossom said.
After seeing the full damage, Judge Gossom decided to request a disaster declaration for Wichita County. He says emergency workers are still in response mode trying to help those in need. With many workers lacking sleep after the long night, most of the recovery efforts will continue tomorrow.
Judge Gossom says anyone who needs imidate help should call 911. For any other questions or to report damage or road closures you can call the Wichita County Administrative offices at 940-763-0820.
