Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the activation of state emergency response resources as Texas prepares for severe weather expected to begin tomorrow. The Texas Division of Emergency Management will coordinate efforts across the state, with multiple agencies ready to respond to potential flooding and other storm-related hazards.
“Texas stands ready to deploy all emergency resources needed to help local communities across the state prepare and respond to severe weather,” said Governor Abbott. “The safety of all Texans is our No. 1 priority. State and local officials continue to monitor the increased storm weather expected to affect communities across West, North, Central, Southwest, and East Texas. Texans are urged to check local weather reports and road conditions and have an emergency plan for themselves and their families. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
The National Weather Service forecasts that a storm system moving into Texas could bring heavy rainfall capable of causing flash flooding. Additional risks include damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. The affected areas cover much of West, North, Central, Southwest, and East Texas. The threat is expected to persist through the end of the week.
State agencies have mobilized various resources in preparation for the severe weather:
– Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads from Texas A&M Task Force 1 are on standby for flood rescues.
– The Texas National Guard will provide Blackhawk helicopters equipped with hoist capability.
– The State of Texas Incident Management Team will support emergency operations statewide.
– Severe Weather Support Packages from the Department of State Health Services include medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.
– Game Wardens and rescue boat teams from the Parks and Wildlife Department are prepared for flood rescues.
– The Department of Public Safety has helicopters with hoist capability as well as highway patrol troopers available.
– Transportation personnel will monitor road conditions throughout the event.
– Disaster Assessment Agents from AgriLife Extension Service will assist with agricultural needs.
– The Public Utility Commission is monitoring power outages in coordination with utility providers.
– The Railroad Commission is overseeing natural gas supply communications with industry partners.
– Environmental Quality officials are monitoring air, water, and wastewater conditions.
Residents are advised to create an emergency plan, assemble essential supplies, and follow instructions from local authorities.
Storm safety tips can be found at https://texasready.gov/, while real-time road conditions are available at https://drivetexas.org/. Flood safety information is accessible at https://texasflood.org/, and general preparedness resources can be found at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
