Governor Greg Abbott visited San Angelo to address the severe flooding affecting Texas. He held a briefing and press conference at Spur Arena, where he emphasized the importance of prioritizing saving lives during disasters. Governor Abbott praised first responders for their efforts in rescuing individuals affected by the floods.
“In a disaster, saving lives is the first and foremost thing that anybody should prioritize,” said Governor Abbott. “Our first responders have stepped up and saved so many lives across the entire region. We will continue the search for everybody that was affected by these devastating floods. At the same time, we are working with local officials and the community to go through the many stages of the recovery process. Texas is going to remain working in Tom Green County and across the state until the recovery is complete.”
The Governor began his visit at a Disaster Recovery Center, where he expressed gratitude to first responders, law enforcement, and volunteers for their dedication in aiding flood victims. He also met with families accessing resources from state agencies and local officials.
During his press conference, Governor Abbott highlighted available assistance from state and federal governments for those impacted by flooding. He discussed plans for an upcoming special session focused on improving early warning systems and emergency response communication statewide.
Joining him were Senator Charles Perry, Representative Drew Darby, Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, Tom Green County Judge Lane Carter, San Angelo Mayor Tom Thompson, San Angelo Fire Department Chief Patrick Brody, among others.
Officials continue reviewing disaster damage reports submitted via TDEM’s Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT). Impacted residents are encouraged to report damage when safe.
Governor Abbott announced several actions taken to support local officials responding to floods:
– Updating the state’s disaster declaration with five more counties
– Announcing federal approval of three additional counties under President Trump’s Major Disaster Declaration
– Expanding SNAP hot foods eligibility to 26 more counties
– Surveying flood damage with General Steven Nordhaus
– Requesting additional counties be included in President Trump’s Major Disaster Declaration
– Allocating up to $5 million through Texas Micro-Business Disaster Recovery Loan Program
– Providing over $1.9 million in grants for hospitals affected by flooding
– Touring flood-damaged areas in Leander
– Launching Texas Flooding Emotional Support Line
These efforts aim to provide necessary resources as communities recover from severe flooding impacts.
