Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe storms expected to affect Southeast and East Texas starting tomorrow.
“Texas is prepared to swiftly respond to severe storms expected across the southeastern and eastern portion of the state,” Governor Abbott said. “Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate all necessary resources to assist Texas communities ahead of potential severe weather. Texans are encouraged to regularly monitor road conditions, make an emergency plan, and heed the guidance of state and local officials.”
The National Weather Service forecasts that a strong storm system linked with a cold front will move through East and Southeast Texas, bringing heavy rainfall that could result in flash flooding. There are also risks of damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes. The threat may continue throughout the holiday weekend, prompting officials to advise residents to stay informed by monitoring local forecasts.
State agencies have mobilized several resources at the direction of Governor Abbott:
– The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) has deployed Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads for flood rescues.
– The Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force) is providing Severe Weather Support Packages including medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.
– The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has assigned Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters equipped with hoist capabilities for flood rescue operations.
– The Texas Department of Public Safety is deploying helicopters with hoist capability as well as Highway Patrol Troopers and its Tactical Marine Unit.
– Personnel from the Texas Department of Transportation are monitoring road conditions.
– Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will support agricultural needs along with County Extension Agents.
– The Public Utility Commission of Texas is overseeing power outage monitoring in coordination with utility providers.
– The Railroad Commission of Texas is monitoring natural gas supplies while communicating with oil and gas industry representatives.
– The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will conduct air, water, and wastewater monitoring.
Emergency management officials are also tracking forecasts for colder temperatures expected early next week. Northwest Texas could see snowfall or icy conditions along with sub-freezing temperatures. Residents are advised to prepare by making plans, packing emergency supply kits, and following instructions from local authorities.
Storm safety tips can be found at https://texasready.gov/, real-time road updates at https://drivetexas.org/, flood safety information at https://texasflood.org/, and preparedness resources at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
