Here's how to help victims of Tropical Storm Imelda

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Tropical Storm Imelda triggered flash flooding Thursday, bringing the city of Houston and the surrounding areas to a standstill, with Gov. Greg Abbott issuing a disaster declaration for several counties across the state.

Preliminary data suggests Imelda is the seventh wettest tropical cyclone in U.S. history and the fourth wettest tropical cyclone to impact Texas, according to a tweet by the National Weather Service Thursday.

In its wake, Imelda has left at least three people dead and forced numerous residents out of their homes, with several shelters established.

On HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Imelda returns with fury, soaking Houston region

Moreover, the state has declared the following counties as disaster areas: Brazoria, Chambers, Galveston, Hardin, Harris, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Newton, Orange and San Jacinto, according to a Friday release from the Houston Food Bank.

The victims of Imelda are in need of relief and aid. Here’s how you can help:

  • Montgomery County Food Bank: A representative for the food bank told Chron.com the organization is in need of water, cleaning supplies, canned food, peanut butter and protein to send to area shelters.
  • Salvation Army: Financial donations can be made online or by calling to support response efforts in Southeast Texas.
  • Texas Diaper Bank: The diaper bank is asking for donations of diapers for babies, children with disabilities and seniors in flooded areas. Donations can be made online.
  • Houston Food Bank: The local food bank, which serves the affected areas of Brazoria, Chambers, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery and San Jacinto, is seeking donations of money, food and time, according to a release. For information, head to the Houston Food Bank’s website. 

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Marcy de Luna is a digital reporter. You can follow her on Twitter @MarcydeLuna and Facebook @MarcydeLuna. Read her stories on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com. | Marcy.deLuna@chron.com