Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of Texans as the state braces for severe weather. In a statement today, Governor Abbott emphasized the readiness of Texas to deploy emergency resources to assist local officials in responding to the impending storm system. "With the potential for dangerous conditions, including flash flooding and tornadoes, Texans in at-risk communities are urged to remain weather-aware and monitor all roadways to keep themselves and their loved ones safe," Governor Abbott stated.

The National Weather Service has issued warnings of a marginal to slight risk of severe thunderstorms spanning from Northwest Texas to the Southeast Texas coast. The anticipated severe storm system carries the threat of large hail, damaging winds, heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding, and the possibility of tornadoes.

In response to the Governor's directives, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has activated various state emergency response resources. These resources include the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) Swiftwater Boat Squads. Additionally, TDEM has put other resources on standby, such as Urban Search & Rescue Teams, Game Wardens and boat squads from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, personnel and equipment from the Texas Department of Transportation for traffic control and road closures, Incident Management Teams and saw crews from the Texas A&M Forest Service, severe weather packages from the Texas Department of State Health Services, the Tactical Marine Unit and helicopters with hoist capabilities from the Texas Department of Public Safety, and air/water/wastewater monitoring from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Texans are advised to make necessary preparations for severe weather by monitoring local weather reports, assembling supplies for an emergency go-kit, and following the guidance of local authorities. Individuals can stay informed about road conditions through DriveTexas.org and access flood tracking information at TexasFlood.org. For additional severe storm safety tips, Texans are encouraged to visit TexasReady.gov.

As Texas gears up for potentially hazardous weather conditions, Governor Abbott's proactive approach in directing state emergency response resources underscores the commitment to safeguarding the well-being of residents across the state.