Texas readies for storm approach

SAN ANTONIO, July 22 (UPI) -- San Antonio officials say they'll be ready if Tropical Storm Dolly becomes a hurricane and sweeps over Texas.

Emergency personnel said they are confident they have incorporated the lessons of hurricanes Katrina and Rita into state and local disaster planning, the San Antonio Express-News reported Tuesday.

"If and when Dolly does become a hurricane, we'll be ready to do what needs to be done for both evacuees and first responders who will be in our area," San Antonio Mayor Phil Hardberger said Monday evening.

The tropical storm gained strength over the Gulf of Mexico and was expected to reach Category 1 hurricane status before making landfall Wednesday, meteorologists with the National Weather Service said.

Texas Gov. Rick Perry has mobilized state resources, including 1,200 National Guard troops from San Antonio, Austin and Dallas, in preparing for Dolly.

"Texans should take proper precautions now to ensure that they are prepared for possible severe weather in their communities," Perry said. "Residents should remain vigilant, heed the warnings from their local officials and continue monitoring this storm."