Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of heavy rainfall and potential flooding in Southeast Texas. The directive comes as severe weather is expected to impact the region through midweek.
“As severe weather threatens communities in Southeast Texas, the State of Texas stands ready to deploy emergency response resources to keep Texans safe,” stated Governor Abbott. He emphasized the importance of monitoring roadways, checking flood information on TexasFlood.org, and following guidance from state and local officials.
The National Weather Service forecasts that heavy rainfall could lead to flash and river flooding starting today. Residents are advised to stay informed about local weather conditions and adhere to safety measures such as “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
In line with the Governor’s instructions, several state agencies have mobilized resources for flood response operations:
– The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) has deployed Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads.
– The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has provided game wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capabilities.
– The Texas Department of Public Safety is offering helicopters with hoist capabilities along with support from Highway Patrol Troopers and the Tactical Marine Unit.
– Personnel from the Texas Department of Transportation are monitoring road conditions.
– Saw Crews from the Texas A&M Forest Service are available for clearing roadways.
– Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will assist with agricultural needs.
– The Public Utility Commission of Texas is overseeing power outage coordination.
– The Railroad Commission of Texas is monitoring natural gas supplies.
– Air, water, and wastewater monitoring will be conducted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
– Severe Weather Support Packages are being provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services’ Emergency Medical Task Force.
Residents are urged to follow instructions from local authorities, create an emergency plan, prepare a supply kit, check road conditions at DriveTexas.org, access flood safety information at TexasReady.gov or find general preparedness tips at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
