GALVESTON -- Most structures and homes on the island have been damaged by the storm, but are still standing and still intact, according to Mayor Lyda Ann Thomas.

Most of the island was covered by floodwaters, which are now receding. 

The City is without power, water, and gas.  Until these basic services are restored the citizens are asked to remain where they are. 

The city's curfew has been extended indefinitely from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Looters will be arrested. Galveston police and the National Guard are patrolling streets to offer aid and protect property.

City officials and staff are actively working on the island's recovery with the assistance of the State of Texas and FEMA. 

At this point, re-entry is completely restricted to authorized personnel ONLY.  City of Galveston employees should not try to return to the island unless contacted by their supervisors.

Currently, Galveston does not have phone service.  Cell phone service should be restored sometime today.  If you are trying to reach property owners and/or relatives that may have stayed in their home during the storm, please call Galveston's EOC at (409) 765-3710.  Essential business owners should contact Jeff Sjostrom with the Galveston Economic Development Partnership at (409) 457-6335.

Ball High School, 4115 Avenue O is currently serving as the hub for water, ice, and food distribution on Galveston Island.  DPS officers are walking door to door in neighborhoods to distribute supplies to Hurricane Ike victims.  Citizens presently located on the island are asked to consider evacuating.  Buses will transport to shelter facilities beginning today, September 14, 2008.

Texas Task Force 1 is currently searching Galveston homes and structures.  The teams will move across the island east to west.  Search activities should be complete in the next 72 hours.

Scholes International Airport will remain closed until further notice.