Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Weather Threat

Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Weather Threat

Governor Greg Abbott today directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of potential severe storms expected to impact Southeast and East Texas beginning tomorrow.

"Texas is prepared to swiftly respond to severe storms expected across the southeastern and eastern portion of the state," said Governor Abbott. "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."

According to the National Weather Service, a strong storm system accompanying a cold front will move across East and Southeast Texas tomorrow, bringing the potential for heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding. Additional risks include damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes. The threat is expected to persist through the holiday weekend, and Texans are urged to stay up to date by monitoring local forecast information.

At the Governor’s direction, the following state emergency response resources are available to support local storm response operations:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1): Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads to assist with flood rescues
• Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Severe Weather Support Packages consisting of medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capability to assist with flood rescues
• Texas Department of Public Safety: Helicopters with hoist capability, Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, and the Tactical Marine Unit
• Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel monitoring road conditions
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents, as well as County Extension Agents, to support agricultural and livestock needs
• Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordination with utility providers
• Railroad Commission of Texas: Monitoring of the state’s natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry
• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air, water, and wastewater monitoring

Additionally, Texas emergency management officials are monitoring the forecast for increasingly cold temperatures anticipated to reach the state early next week with the possibility of snowfall and icy conditions in Northwest Texas, in addition to the sub-freezing temperatures. Texans are encouraged to make a plan, pack an emergency supply kit, and follow instructions from local officials.

Texans can locate storm safety tips at TexasReady.gov, check real-time road conditions at DriveTexas.org, and obtain flood safety information at TexasFlood.org. All-hazards preparedness resources are available at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.