The Associated Press

LITTLE ROCK—Texas residents who evacuated to avoid Hurricane Ike are being advised to not return home until mandatory evacuation orders have been lifted in their communities, according to the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management.

Government leaders in Texas say they need to restore essential services, such as water, electricity and sewer service, before it will be safe for evacuees to return home.

Texas is using its 211 service to provide re-entry information. The system is accessible out-of-state by calling 888-312-4567 or 877-541-7905. The service is free, and operators will be able to discuss assistance and community services available in Texas.