Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate more state emergency response resources due to rising wildfire risks and a potential flood threat this weekend. The Governor has also amended and renewed the state’s wildfire disaster declaration, now covering 179 counties.
“Elevated wildfire conditions and flood risk continue to pose a threat across the state of Texas,” Governor Abbott said. “Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to deploy additional resources in preparation for potential wildfires in the eastern half of the state and severe flooding in West Texas. Texas will remain vigilant and continue to provide all necessary resources to protect Texans from wildfire and flood threats.”
The Texas A&M Forest Service reports that dry vegetation, higher winds, and above-average temperatures are increasing wildfire potential in the eastern part of the state. The agency has raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 3, indicating that multiple regions are affected by wildfires caused by drought and frequent fire weather events. Over the past week, more than 50 wildfires have burned over 3,000 acres statewide.
The National Weather Service warns that heavy rainfall from storms moving north over Mexico into Far West Texas could cause flash flooding over the weekend. Residents are advised to monitor weather forecasts and follow instructions from emergency officials.
Under Governor Abbott’s directive, several agencies are providing support:
– The Texas A&M Forest Service has deployed more than 350 firefighters and support personnel, over 125 pieces of equipment, and more than 35 federally contracted firefighting aircraft.
– The Texas Department of State Health Services is providing Wildland Fire and Severe Weather Support Packages.
– The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service has sent Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads for flood rescues.
– Other agencies including the Texas Department of Transportation, Department of Public Safety, Parks and Wildlife Department, AgriLife Extension Service, Animal Health Commission, Department of Agriculture, Public Utility Commission, Railroad Commission, Commission on Environmental Quality, and Health and Human Services Commission are also supporting response efforts.
Texans are encouraged to prepare for wildfires by making emergency plans, following officials’ instructions, and keeping supplies ready. Safety tips can be found at TexasReady.gov. Additional information on wildfire prevention is available at tfsweb.tamu.edu; road conditions can be checked at DriveTexas.org; and all-hazards preparedness tips are listed at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
Governor Abbott’s ongoing actions include activating extra wildfire response resources ahead of increased threats and directing TDEM to issue a disaster declaration for wildfire danger.
