Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott issued a statement today addressing the severe weather and tornadoes that have been impacting communities in Southeast Texas.

"Our hearts are with the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives due to severe weather in Southeast Texas, and we remain in contact with local officials to do everything we can to protect Texans and help our communities recover,” Governor Abbott stated. He emphasized that as severe weather continues to affect the Southeast region of the state, Texas is deploying resources and assistance to ensure the safety of its residents.

Last month, Governor Abbott prepared state emergency response resources and issued a disaster declaration. Since then, he has amended that declaration to ensure every community threatened by dangerous weather conditions would have access to necessary resources.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management is actively supporting impacted communities with immediate and long-term recovery resource needs. In addition, the Public Utility Commission of Texas is coordinating with utility providers to restore power as quickly as possible in affected areas.

Governor Abbott encouraged Texans who sustained storm damage to report it online at damage.tdem.texas.gov when it is safe for them to do so. He expressed his gratitude towards emergency response personnel working tirelessly around-the-clock to protect their fellow Texans amidst this severe weather event.