Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to elevate the readiness level of the Texas State Operations Center (SOC) to Level II, an escalated response status. This action comes in anticipation of winter weather expected to affect the state significantly from tomorrow through the weekend.

"With below-freezing temperatures beginning to impact large portions of the state, Texas is increasing the readiness level of the State Operations Center to ensure resources are swiftly deployed to communities," stated Governor Abbott. He urged Texans to stay informed about weather conditions, monitor road conditions before traveling, and follow guidance from state and local officials. "I thank all the first responders and emergency management personnel for their efforts to help Texas communities brace for winter weather."

The National Weather Service forecasts that much of Texas will experience freezing or below-freezing temperatures throughout this week. Northern, western, and central regions may see accumulating snow, sleet, ice, and freezing rain.

In response to Governor Abbott's directive, TDEM has requested representatives from various members of the Texas Emergency Management Council report to SOC. These members include:

- The Texas Department of Transportation will deploy winter weather roadway equipment and crews for pre-treating and treating roadways.

- The Texas Division of Emergency Management will have Incident Management Teams ready.

- The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service will provide Public Works Response Teams.

- The Texas A&M Forest Service will offer saw crews and motor graders for snow/ice clearance.

- The Texas Department of State Health Services has prepared Winter Weather Packages with medics and ambulances.

- The Public Utility Commission of Texas will monitor power outages in coordination with utility providers.

Other agencies involved include the Railroad Commission of Texas, monitoring natural gas supplies; the Texas Department of Public Safety; game wardens from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department; high-profile vehicles from both departments; and several other state agencies prepared for various tasks related to public safety and resource management.

Governor Abbott had previously directed TDEM to activate state emergency response resources ahead of this severe winter weather forecast. Texans are advised to heed instructions from emergency officials, prepare an emergency supply kit, and make a plan. Resources such as winter weather safety tips can be found at TexasReady.gov. Information on warming centers is available at tdem.texas.gov/warm, while road conditions can be checked at DriveTexas.org.