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WASHINGTON , DC -- The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency is warning residents in Texas and Louisiana to pay close attention to directions being given by state and local officials and to heed those warnings of evacuation or recommended preparedness measures.

"Hurricane Rita is currently a category 4 storm and like any hurricane, the track can be unpredictable. We have already seen a shift overnight in its track and residents within the entire zone of possible impact should be listening very closely to local and state officials," said Acting FEMA Director R. David Paulison. "If you are told to evacuate, please obey these instructions. And as you prepare for evacuation or have been told to shelter in place, you need to have a minimum of 72 hours of food, water and other supplies for you and your family.

"Federal officials are working very closely with the states of Texas and Louisiana and have commodities, rescue personnel and other assets moving into place today," Paulison said. "However, I cannot caution enough the need for individuals to prepare themselves and their families. First responders will not be able to reach impacted areas until the conditions are safe enough to respond."

Release Date: September 22, 2005Release Number: HQ-05-289
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