Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to raise the readiness level of the State Emergency Operations Center to Level III, which means increased readiness, as severe storms are expected in Texas this week.
“In preparation for forecasted severe storms, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to increase the readiness level of the State Operations Center,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas stands ready to respond and swiftly deploy all necessary resources to support local officials with response operations and ensure the safety of Texans. Texans are urged to remain weather-aware and heed the guidance of state and local officials and emergency response personnel to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
The National Weather Service forecasts that a storm system starting today could bring heavy rainfall across large parts of West, North, Central, Southwest, and East Texas. This may result in flash flooding. The storms could also bring damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes. Additional storms are predicted for early next week in significant areas of Texas. Residents are advised to monitor weather updates.
Governor Abbott has ordered TDEM to have representatives from several agencies report for 24-hour operations at the State Operations Center. These agencies include:
– Texas Department of Transportation
– Texas A&M Forest Service
– Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force)
– Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service
– Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
– Texas Department of Public Safety
– Texas National Guard
In addition, more state emergency resources have been activated ahead of increasing flood risks:
– Swiftwater rescue boat squads from Texas A&M Task Force 1 will assist with flood rescues.
– The Texas National Guard is deploying high-profile vehicles and Blackhawk helicopters equipped with hoists.
– The State Incident Management Team will coordinate statewide emergency responses.
– Strike teams from the Forest Service will help local fire departments handle various hazards.
– Severe Weather Support Packages including medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles will be provided by health services.
– Game Wardens, rescue boats, and helicopters from Parks & Wildlife will support flood rescues.
– The Department of Public Safety is sending helicopters with hoist capability along with highway patrol troopers.
– Road conditions will be monitored by transportation department staff.
– Disaster Assessment Agents from AgriLife Extension Service will address agricultural needs during emergencies.
– The Public Utility Commission is monitoring power outages in coordination with utility companies.
– The Railroad Commission is keeping track of natural gas supplies and communicating with oil and gas operators.
– Environmental Quality staff are overseeing air, water, and wastewater systems.
Governor Abbott had already ordered activation of these resources yesterday as a precaution against potential storm impacts.
Residents are encouraged to complete preparations such as making an emergency plan or assembling disaster kits. They should follow warnings from local officials.
Road condition updates can be found at DriveTexas.org; severe weather tips at TexasReady.gov; flood safety information at TexasFlood.org; general preparedness resources at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
