Kilgore, Texas, is grappling with a significant power outage, leaving residents in search of respite from the oppressive heat. Stepping up to meet the community's needs, Forest Home Baptist Church, located in Kilgore, has established a dedicated cooling station at their premises. This initiative aims to provide relief and support to individuals affected by the power outage.
Every day from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Forest Home Baptist Church welcomes all community members to their cooling station. The designated location for the cooling station is the Richardson building, a two-story cream-colored structure with green trim situated directly behind the main church building. Here, residents can find solace from the sweltering temperatures and access to water, snacks, and even charging stations for their electronic devices.
Recognizing the importance of efficient communication during emergencies, the church advises residents to refrain from calling with power-related queries or to inquire about the availability of other services. Overwhelming the phone lines with non-essential calls obstructs the ability of dispatch services to respond promptly to public safety concerns.
While the exact cause of the power outage remains unknown, reports suggest that crews working on switching stations may be responsible for the disruption. Despite the power outage, the city's water supply remains unaffected, thanks to the deployment of generators to power essential facilities. However, it is crucial for residents to conserve water whenever possible, considering the reliance on auxiliary power.
Yesterday, various churches in the area served as cooling stations, but the current status of these facilities remains uncertain. Fortunately, Forest Home Baptist Church, along with 1st Baptist Danville, still has power and will continue to hold regular church services, providing a safe space for individuals to find relief from the heat. Community members are encouraged to share information about other open churches in the area and their respective operating hours to assist those in need.
For residents seeking alternative cooling stations, the Forest Park Middle School in nearby Longview, located at 1644 North Eastman, has also opened its doors to provide relief from the scorching temperatures.
In terms of essential supplies, Brookshires supermarket in Kilgore has successfully powered up a larger generator, enabling the store to remain open even during power outages. The supermarket is working diligently to restock perishable items, ensuring that residents have access to essential goods.
Those in need of assistance can also consider visiting Henderson, a neighboring town unaffected by the power outage, which offers various services and amenities.
Local authorities remind residents to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations, particularly at intersections. Treat all intersections as four-way stops to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Kilgore Police Department (KPD) is actively patrolling the area to maintain public safety and discourage any nefarious activities during this challenging time. Additionally, the Bulldog Bed and Breakfast has auxiliary power and is ready to provide accommodation for those who may act disruptively.
To facilitate the flow of information, a designated post will serve as an information blog, providing updates and essential details throughout the day. Residents are encouraged to contribute to this collective effort, making the situation more manageable for everyone involved. It is essential to remain patient, kind, and respectful towards individuals who are working diligently to address the situation and assist the community.
Lastly, a list of open establishments, including fuel stations, food establishments, and other important services, will be provided to ensure residents have access to necessary resources. Operating hours for these establishments should be taken into account when planning visits.
Forest Home Baptist Church, alongside the resilient community of Kilgore, stands united in these challenging circumstances, exemplifying the strength and spirit that define this
