Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources as a tropical weather system is forecasted to impact the Texas Gulf Coast starting Friday.
“As Texas braces for incoming heavy rain and strong winds along the Gulf Coast and South Texas, I activated emergency response resources to help local officials protect their fellow Texans,” said Governor Abbott. “This tropical system could lead to dangerous travel conditions and potential flash flooding. Texans are urged to take all necessary precautions for potential tropical weather, regularly check road conditions before traveling, and have an emergency plan to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”
The National Weather Service expects the approaching tropical system will bring significant rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding to areas of South Texas and the Gulf Coast. These conditions may result in hazardous travel and flash flooding. State officials recommend residents prepare by developing an emergency plan, assembling a supply kit, following instructions from local authorities, and keeping essential items accessible.
In response to the forecasted storm, 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 for flood rescues.
– The Texas A&M Forest Service (Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System) has provided strike teams with personnel and fire engines.
– The Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force) is sending medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles as part of a severe weather support package.
– The Texas National Guard is deploying Blackhawk helicopters with hoist capabilities for rescues and high-profile vehicles for stranded motorists.
– TDEM’s State of Texas Incident Management Team will coordinate statewide emergency response efforts.
– The Texas Department of Transportation will monitor road conditions.
– The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is providing game wardens, rescue boats, and helicopters equipped for flood rescues.
– The Texas Department of Public Safety is supplying helicopters with hoist capabilities along with highway patrol troopers and tactical marine units.
– The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will offer disaster assessment agents to support agriculture needs.
– The Public Utility Commission of Texas will oversee power outage monitoring in coordination with utility providers.
– The Railroad Commission of Texas will monitor natural gas supplies and communicate with oil and gas operators.
– The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will conduct air, water, and wastewater monitoring.
Residents can find more information about tropical weather safety at https://texasready.gov/ or view preparedness tips at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare. Beach safety guidance is available at https://www.weather.gov/, while rip current safety tips can be accessed through https://www.noaa.gov/.
