(Nov. 3, 2006) - Reeves County, Texas now has a NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) transmitter system. The placement of the new transmitter is paramount as Reeves County has a long history of devastating weather. On May 22, 1987, the community of Saragosa, in southern Reeves County, was the site of a deadly tornado that claimed 31 lives. In April of 2004, major flooding across the county resulted in a bridge collapse along Interstate 20 and caused a critical levee failure - forcing the evacuation of residents in the town of Toyah.

The addition of NOAA Weather Radio All-Hazards in Reeves County provides an additional way for the residents of Pecos, Saragosa and Toyah to receive critical information that will aid them in making informed decisions to help protect their lives and property. The transmitter's 40-45 mile range also allows the Wickett, Grandfalls, Wink and Fort Stockton to receive the benefits of NWR.

This new service marks the culmination of a long and successful process utilizing the USDA Rural Utilities Service (RUS) NWR Grant Program to attain funding. In 2000, the county initiated the grant application process. Working closely with the National Weather Service Midland office and USDA Rural Development representatives, new Reeves County Emergency Manager Ricky Herrera renewed that effort in 2003.

In May of 2006, Area Director John Perkins, of the USDA Rural Development group from Fort Stockton, met with Herrera to present a RUS NWR Grant for $80,000 for the new transmitter.

In addition to severe weather events, NWR broadcasts warnings and post-event information for all types of natural or man made hazards. It also provides public safety information, such as for AMBER alerts and 911 telephone outages. This information is provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week.