Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency resources in anticipation of severe weather expected to impact large portions of Texas starting tomorrow.
“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 will move into Texas beginning tomorrow, bringing heavy rainfall with the potential for flash flooding. Other possible hazards include strong winds, large hail, and tornadoes. The impacts could be felt throughout much of the state until the end of the week.
To address these risks, several state agencies have been mobilized:
– Swiftwater rescue teams from Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) are prepared for flood rescues.
– The Texas National Guard has Blackhawk helicopters equipped with hoist capability ready for flood response operations.
– The Texas Division of Emergency Management’s Incident Management Team will coordinate deployed resources statewide.
– The Texas Department of State Health Services is providing Severe Weather Support Packages with medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.
– Game Wardens and helicopter crews from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will support flood rescues.
– The Texas Department of Public Safety is deploying helicopters with hoist capability along with Highway Patrol Troopers and its Tactical Marine Unit.
– Personnel from the Texas Department of Transportation are monitoring road conditions throughout affected areas.
– Disaster Assessment Agents from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service are supporting agricultural needs.
– The Public Utility Commission is tracking power outages in coordination with utility providers.
– The Railroad Commission is overseeing natural gas supply monitoring in cooperation with oil and gas companies.
– The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is conducting air, water, and wastewater monitoring.
Officials encourage residents to develop emergency plans, gather essential supplies in preparation kits, and follow guidance issued by local authorities.
Storm safety tips can be found at https://texasready.gov/, while up-to-date road conditions are available at https://drivetexas.org/. Flood safety information can be accessed at https://texasflood.org/, and comprehensive preparedness resources are provided online at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare/.
