Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe storms forecasted 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 reports that a strong storm system with a cold front will move through East and Southeast Texas, bringing heavy rainfall that could cause flash flooding. Other risks include damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes. The threat may continue through the holiday weekend. Residents are advised to stay informed by following local forecasts.
In response, several agencies have mobilized resources:
– 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 medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles as part of Severe Weather Support Packages.
– The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has assigned game wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters equipped with hoists for flood rescues.
– The Texas Department of Public Safety is making helicopters with hoist capability available along with Highway Patrol Troopers and its Tactical Marine Unit.
– The Texas Department of Transportation will have personnel monitoring road conditions.
– The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is sending Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents as well as County Extension Agents to support agricultural needs.
– The Public Utility Commission of Texas will monitor power outages and coordinate with utility providers.
– The Railroad Commission of Texas will oversee natural gas supply monitoring and communication with oil and gas companies.
– 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 that could bring snow or icy conditions in Northwest Texas along with sub-freezing temperatures. Residents are urged to prepare emergency kits and follow instructions from local authorities.
For storm safety tips, residents can visit https://www.texasready.gov/. Real-time road conditions are available at https://drivetexas.org/, while flood safety information can be found at https://texasflood.org/. Additional preparedness resources are offered at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
