Friday 9/23/05 4.45 am Houston, Texas
Last update: 6.16am
Rita still coming, Cat.4 winds expect 150+m/h. I'm still in Houston covering the story for Univision, KXLN-TV45 and Univision Radio. We have basic crews working and doing as much as we can to keep people informed. We have placed at least one live truck outside Houston as to come back after and serve viewers and radio listeners. We're simultcasting in Spanish.
Thousands still waiting up to 24hrs in most Hwys. trying to come out of Houston, gas has ran out in most places. However tonight, state tanker trucks are helping and lines are moving along. Last night Mayor Bill White called for volunteers to help distribute water to stranded drivers waiting in Hwys. 18 buses packed with volunteers came to the rescue. As of 6am, 40 thousand bottle of water have been distributed. People who live near the Hwys and have gas are coming out to help those stranded. Meanwhile, the city seems calm and in control. Streets are quiet. Only a couple of incidents of 2 people breaking into a store. Local shelters are starting to pen for those who won't make it out.
Calm and quiet streets in general. Some homes boarded up but many are not.
I'm at home for tonight in the Houston Heights on E. 1Oth St. West of Studewood very near to I-10 West, minutes from downtown. Latest Rita info believes it will come in between Port Arthur and Beaumont near the Lousiana border time has been pushed forward. We will however still get plenty of rain and up to 100mph winds within Metro Houston. In the Beaumont area authorities have airlifted near 9,000 elderly and those who need medical attention. Airports will shut down at 12 noon Friday most probalby earlier. Many flights however have already cancelled. 7AM CT press conference expected.
I will head out to cover any news in the Houston area early AM with news photographer Mariano Garcia. We have food and water for 5 days, we are safe and prepared. We will make arrangements for shelter tonight. Like thousands my family has also gone to San Antonio and I have secured our home. Pics attached.
Track Rita HERE
Complete Coverage HERE
Univision 45 HERE
LIVE RADIO HERE
Diarios Rumbo HERE
ABC-13 HERE
I'll be in touch when I can.
Patricio//
