Jasper County Activates Emergency Response, Urges Caution as Winter Storm Fern Continues

Photo Credit: East Texas Banner

Jasper County officials are responding to ongoing impacts from Winter Storm Fern, including power outages, downed trees, and hazardous conditions, according to an update from Mark Allen, Jasper County Judge.

Power Outages and Reporting Guidance

Judge Allen said the latest reports show:

• Jasper-Newton Electric Cooperative with 3,590 Jasper County connections without power

• Deep East Texas Electric Cooperative reporting approximately 950 homes without power in the county

County officials are asking residents not to call 9-1-1 to report power outages, urging customers instead to contact their electric provider directly using available outage call center numbers. This request is intended to keep the Sheriff’s Office 9-1-1 call center available for emergency calls.

Safety Concerns

Officials continue to stress public safety as ice accumulates across the county. Residents are urged to:

• Use extreme caution around downed trees and limbs

• Never approach a downed power line and report it immediately to the appropriate authorities

  
  

County officials have already received multiple reports of limbs falling under the weight of ice, including one tree that caused damage to a home.

Shelter and Emergency Resources

A warming shelter remains open at the Nehemiah Center on Pollard Street in the City of Jasper. The shelter is being maintained by the American Red Cross for Jasper County, with seven Red Cross volunteers on site overnight.

While no residents sought shelter Saturday night, Judge Allen said officials anticipate increased need as power outages grow and conditions worsen due to higher winds and lower temperatures.

In addition, the Buna Volunteer Fire Department is on standby along Texas Highway 62 in Buna to assist if freezing temperatures and power outages create additional emergencies.

Ongoing Monitoring and Coordination

Commissioners in each precinct are actively monitoring conditions within their jurisdictions and are prepared to respond if road closures occur due to fallen trees or debris.

Jasper County continues coordinating response efforts with:

• Texas Department of Emergency Management

• American Red Cross

• Texas Department of Transportation

  
  

Officials said they will continue monitoring weather conditions as this system moves through the region, with another potential weather system expected later in the week.

East Texas Banner will continue providing updates as conditions change.