Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to mobilize state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe weather and potential flooding expected to affect Texas throughout the week.
“Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary resources to support Texans as severe storms move across our state that will bring potential flash flooding and heavy rain,” said Governor Abbott. He urged residents to remain vigilant, monitor road conditions, and adhere to advice from state and local authorities for their safety.
The National Weather Service forecasts severe storms across large areas of the state until Wednesday, with flood risks persisting into late-week. Potential impacts include hail, strong winds, tornadoes, heavy rainfall, and flash floods. Residents are advised to stay informed through reliable weather sources.
Under the Governor’s directive, several state agencies have been prepared to assist local responses:
– Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service is providing Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads and Urban Search and Rescue Teams.
– The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is deploying game wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters equipped for flood rescues.
– The Texas Department of Public Safety offers helicopters with hoist capabilities along with highway patrol troopers.
– The Texas Department of Transportation personnel are monitoring road conditions.
– The Texas A&M Forest Service has saw crews available for clearing roads.
– Disaster Assessment Agents from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service are supporting agricultural needs.
– The Public Utility Commission is overseeing power outages in coordination with utility companies.
– The Railroad Commission monitors natural gas supplies while communicating with oil and gas sectors.
– Air, water, and wastewater monitoring is being conducted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
– Severe Weather Support Packages from the Texas Department of State Health Services include medics, ambulances, and ATVs.
Residents are encouraged to prepare emergency plans and kits while following local official instructions. Road conditions can be checked at DriveTexas.org; flood safety information is available at TexasReady.gov; additional details can be found at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
