AUSTIN—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, today issued the following statement after concluding an aerial and ground tour of Beaumont, Galveston and other areas in Southeast Texas impacted by Hurricane Ike:  

“Today I joined Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison in surveying the regions that suffered a direct hit from Hurricane Ike. There’s no question this storm delivered a devastating blow to Southeast and East Texas. The damage is extensive, millions are without power, and tens of thousands are yet unable to return home. But as devastating as this storm was, if it were not for the preparation and response efforts on the local, state and federal levels, the human toll would have been much worse. I commend Governor Perry and his team for an effort that kept millions of Texans safe from harm, and for their preparation and response to this hurricane. I also appreciate Secretary Chertoff’s leadership. He has remained in close communication with the Texas response teams and has cut through the red tape to free up the federal resources needed for clean-up and relief. As I saw today, our first responders are doing an excellent job working around the clock to protect lives and property, and addressing hazards so families can safely return home.  

“I was incredibly impressed with the tough spirit and resilience of my fellow Texans that I met today. They looked out for their neighbors and worked together to weather this storm. My family and I continue to keep them in our thoughts and prayers as many face the difficult task of repairing and rebuilding their homes, lives, and businesses.  Rest assured, I will continue to work to ensure they are receiving the relief and assistance they need in a timely manner. 

“For those seeking assistance, I realize that many are without power and phone may be the only option to reach FEMA. I encourage them to call FEMA’s hotline at 1-800-621-3362. Those with internet access are encouraged to register for assistance through the FEMA Web site www.fema.gov.” 

FEMA has also established the following family registry locator hotline for individuals trying to locate family members: 1-800-588-9822.