Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to request that officials from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) join state and local partners in conducting joint preliminary damage assessments in Southeast Texas. These communities were recently affected by severe storms and tornadoes. The purpose of these assessments is to determine whether Texas meets the criteria for federal disaster assistance, with federal teams expected to arrive within the week.
“Today, I requested the U.S. Small Business Administration join state and local officials to begin preliminary damage assessments so we can ensure Texans have the support they need,” said Governor Abbott. “These assessments will provide the accurate, on-the-ground information needed to secure crucial federal assistance for Texans who need it most. Texans are urged to report damages to their homes or businesses through TDEM’s iSTAT survey. Together, we will ensure communities in Southeast Texas affected by these storms have what they need to rebuild and recover.”
Officials are continuing to review disaster damage information reported by residents using TDEM’s Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) survey. Residents who experienced storm damage are encouraged to submit details through the online iSTAT survey at damage.tdem.texas.gov when it is safe for them to do so. This data helps direct response efforts and resources toward areas most affected.
Before the storms hit, Governor Abbott had activated state emergency response resources and raised the readiness level of the Texas State Emergency Operations Center. This action was taken to support local officials and first responders as they responded to severe weather events.
