Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources as severe weather and flash flooding threats loom over large areas of South and Southeast Texas through the weekend.
“Texas is prepared to deploy all resources needed to support local communities in South and Southeast Texas as they prepare to respond to severe weather and flash flooding,” Governor Abbott stated. “
Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate rescue boats, hoist capable helicopters, search and rescue teams, and other resources to help local emergency officials respond to heavy rainfall and flash flooding.
Texans are urged to monitor the weather, make an emergency plan, and heed the guidance of state and local officials to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
According to the National Weather Service, significant rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding, is expected to affect South and Southeast Texas from today through the end of the week. The ground, which has been dry from prolonged drought conditions, will result in rapid, excessive runoff, increasing the risk of flash flooding. Severe storms are also possible, with damaging winds and large hail predicted for South Texas in the coming days. Texans are urged to stay updated on local weather forecasts and take necessary precautions.
In response to the growing threat, Governor Abbott has authorized the activation of various emergency response resources, including:
– Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service: Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads, Urban Search and Rescue Teams, and Flood Water Boat Squads.
– Texas Division of Emergency Management: The State of Texas Incident Management Team to support response operations across the state.
– Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capabilities for flood rescues.
– Texas Department of Public Safety: Helicopters with hoist capabilities, Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, and the Tactical Marine Unit.
– Texas National Guard: Personnel and high-profile vehicles to assist stranded motorists.
In addition, several other resources have been readied for activation if needed, including:
– Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents and AgriLife Extension Agents for agricultural support.
– Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel monitoring road conditions.
– Public Utility Commission of Texas: Coordinating with utility providers to monitor power outages.
– Railroad Commission of Texas: Monitoring natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry.
– Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Monitoring air, water, and wastewater conditions.
– Texas Department of State Health Services: Emergency Medical Task Force support packages, including medics and ambulances.
The Texas State Emergency Operations Center remains activated at Level II (Escalated Response) to provide support to local communities. Meanwhile, the Texas Emergency Management Council continues to monitor the increasing wildfire threat across West Texas.
Texans are strongly encouraged to stay vigilant and follow official guidance during this severe weather event.
