Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe weather that is expected to impact much 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 a storm system entering Texas tomorrow with potential for heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding. Additional risks include damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. These conditions may affect broad areas including West, North, Central, Southwest, and East Texas through the end of the week.
In response, several state agencies have mobilized resources:
– The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) has deployed swiftwater rescue boat squads.
– The Texas National Guard will provide Blackhawk helicopters with hoist capabilities for flood response.
– The Texas Division of Emergency Management will coordinate incident management teams statewide.
– The Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force) is sending medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.
– Game Wardens from the Parks and Wildlife Department are ready with rescue boats and helicopters.
– The Department of Public Safety is providing helicopters, highway patrol troopers, and tactical marine units.
– The Department of Transportation will monitor road conditions.
– Agents from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will assist with agricultural needs.
– The Public Utility Commission will oversee power outage monitoring in coordination with utility providers.
– The Railroad Commission will keep track of natural gas supplies and communicate with oil and gas operators.
– Environmental monitoring for air, water, and wastewater will be managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Residents are encouraged to create emergency plans, assemble essential supply kits, and follow guidance from local authorities. Storm safety information can be found at https://texasready.gov/, real-time road updates at https://drivetexas.org/, flood preparedness at https://texasflood.org/, and additional preparedness resources at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare/.
