Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state emergency response resources due to severe weather and flooding threats expected in Texas over the coming days.

"Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary resources to support Texans as severe weather moves across our state that has potential to bring flash flooding and heavy rain," stated Governor Abbott. He urged residents to stay informed about weather conditions, check road statuses, and follow advice from state and local officials for safety. He also recommended monitoring roadways before traveling and visiting TexasFlood.org for flood information, reminding everyone: "Turn Around, Don't Drown."

The National Weather Service predicts severe weather will affect large areas of the Panhandle, North, West, and East Texas starting today and continuing through the week. The forecast includes damaging winds, large hail, possible tornadoes, excessive rainfall, and flash flooding. Wind gusts could exceed 80-100 miles per hour later today. Mid-week is expected to see intensified rain and flood threats across North, Central, East, and South Texas. Residents are advised to follow local forecasts from reliable sources.

Governor Abbott has ensured that various state emergency response resources are on standby:

- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service provides Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads and Urban Search and Rescue Teams.

- TDEM offers a State Incident Management Team for statewide emergency response support.

- The Texas National Guard is ready with personnel and high-profile vehicles for assisting stranded motorists.

- The Texas Department of Transportation is monitoring road conditions.

- The Texas A&M Forest Service has Saw Crews for clearing roads and TIFMAS Strike Teams supporting local services.

- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department deploys Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters for flood rescues.

- The Texas Department of Public Safety provides helicopters with hoist capabilities along with Highway Patrol Troopers.

- The Texas Department of State Health Services supplies Severe Weather Support Packages including medics and ambulances.

- The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service offers Disaster Assessment Agents for agricultural needs.

- The Public Utility Commission monitors power outages in coordination with utility providers.

- The Railroad Commission oversees natural gas supply communication with the oil industry.

- The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality handles air/water/wastewater monitoring.

This activation follows an earlier directive by Governor Abbott last week for resource deployment ahead of severe weather threats.

Residents are encouraged to prepare by assembling an emergency supply kit, creating an emergency plan, and following local official guidance. Information on flood safety can be found at TexasReady.gov; road conditions at DriveTexas.org; preparedness tips at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.