GALVESTON ISLAND, Texas (Talk1370.com) -- Laura grew into a category 1 hurricane Tuesday morning, prompting officials along the upper Texas Gulf Coast to order mandatory evacuations.
Galveston Mayor Pro Tem Craig Brown signed an order calling for residents to secure loose items at their property and leave the island by noon Tuesday. Port Arthur and Beaumont, as well as Jefferson and Orange Counties have also issued or will issue mandatory evacuation orders.
Laura is forecast to make landfall late Wednesday or early Thursday as a Category 3 hurricane near the Texas/Louisiana border.
"With the uncertainties of this storm and its increasing strength, we need to take all necessary precautions to protect our residents," Brown said. "It's imperative that you make plans this morning to secure your homes and move you and your family to safety off island."
The city says that police and fire services will not be available once conditions reach tropical storm levels.