Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of potential flooding in Southeast Texas. The decision comes as heavy rainfall is expected to hit the region, raising concerns about flash and river flooding.

"As severe weather threatens communities in Southeast Texas, the State of Texas stands ready to deploy emergency response resources to keep Texans safe," stated Governor Abbott. He emphasized the importance for residents to stay informed by monitoring roadways and consulting resources like TexasFlood.org for updates. "Southeast Texans are urged to regularly monitor roadways before traveling, check TexasFlood.org for flood information, and heed the guidance of state and local officials."

The National Weather Service has forecasted significant rainfall that could lead to dangerous flooding conditions starting today and continuing over the next few days. Residents are advised to stay updated with local forecasts and remember safety protocols such as "Turn Around, Don’t Drown."

To support local efforts in managing flood risks, several state agencies have been mobilized:

- The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service will provide Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads.

- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will deploy game wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters equipped with hoist capabilities.

- The Texas Department of Public Safety will offer helicopters with hoist capabilities alongside troopers from the Highway Patrol.

- Personnel from the Texas Department of Transportation will be on hand to monitor road conditions.

- Saw crews from the Texas A&M Forest Service will assist in clearing roadways.

- Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will address agricultural needs.

- The Public Utility Commission of Texas will oversee power outage monitoring.

- The Railroad Commission of Texas will track natural gas supplies.

- Air, water, and wastewater monitoring will be conducted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

- Severe Weather Support Packages including medics and ambulances are prepared by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Residents are encouraged to follow instructions from local authorities, develop an emergency plan, and prepare a supply kit. Information on road conditions can be found at DriveTexas.org; flood safety details are available at TexasReady.gov; additional flood information is accessible via TexasFlood.org; general preparedness tips can be reviewed at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.