June 20, 2023. This story has been updated to reflect U-Haul’s commitment to those in the Ark-La-Tex region.
Parts of Amarillo, Texas, which were recovering from heavy rain that hit recently, were hammered again this past week by intense storms. With the Lawrence Lake already over capacity, overflowing caused road closures and evacuations. Due to the severe flash flooding, the National Weather Service prompted residents to move to higher ground. Some who did not heed the warnings found themselves trapped, leading to a number of water rescues performed by the Amarillo Fire Department. The department has stated they have successfully rescued 245 people and 57 from flooded complexes where water levels reached upwards of six feet. Evacuees have been staying at the Amarillo Civic Center, and many fear the worst. “‘Do I have something to go home to? And if so, how much damage?” Allen Contreras asked local news KFDA.
Unfortunately, it might not be over yet. The National Weather Service said more storms are possible through Saturday evening. These could include large hail, damaging winds, and more flash flooding. Texas Governor Grey Abbott has already issued a severe weather disaster declaration for 13 counties, which allowed for the use of state resources to help cope with the storms.
U-Haul Disaster Relief
Once company offering to lend a hand is U-Haul. The rental company has announced they will be offering 30 days of free self-storage space and U-Box. A U-Haul press release stated the company will offer access to dry and secure self-storage to Amarillo residents and families displaced with homes that will require repairs. As part of the U-Haul Disaster Relief program, these units will be provided based on availability.
“U-Haul self-storage is always in demand during flood events, and we are in a fortunate position to be able to help,” stated Rusty Freeze, the U-Haul Company of West Texas president. “Our team is ready to assist any of our neighbors who were forced to evacuate or need a dry space to keep their possessions during the recovery process.”
To arrange for 30 days of free self-storage, U-Haul request that you contact the following participating facilities:
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of North Amarillo
- 2100 SW 6th Ave
- (806) 373-4488
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of South Amarillo
- 5316 Canyon Drive
- (806) 353-7421
Following devastating storms that have left many without power in other regions, U-Haul is helping those in the Ark-La-Tex region. Contact these facilities for more.
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of Downtown Riverfront, Shreveport LA
- 222 Lake St
- (318) 963-8789
- U-Haul Moving & Storage at Hollywood, Shreveport LA
- 2205 Hollywood
- (318) 636-7135
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of Longview, Longview TX
- 410 W. Marshall Ave.
- (903) 757-3436
- U-Haul Moving & Storage at State Line, Texarkana, TX
- 5005 N. State Line Ave
- (903) 832-5073
Read about other self storage charity efforts in MSM’s Helping Hands.