Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of a tropical weather system. This system is expected to bring heavy rain to East and Southeast Texas starting tonight.

“As this tropical system approaches our state, Texas is taking swift action to prepare and respond,” said Governor Abbott. “The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all resources needed to protect Texans and support our communities as they brace for potential severe weather. Texans are urged to remain weather-aware and heed the guidance of local officials.”

The National Hurricane Center is tracking a storm moving across the northern Gulf Coast that could pose a heavy rain threat for East and Southeast Texas, as well as a rip current threat along the Texas Coast. The National Weather Service warns that severe storms with flooding potential are anticipated in the Panhandle region through the week. Residents are advised to stay updated with local forecasts.

In response, several state emergency resources have been mobilized:

- The State of Texas Incident Management Team will support deployed emergency response efforts.

- Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads from Texas A&M Task Force 1 will assist with flood rescues.

- Strike Teams from the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System will aid local departments.

- Severe Weather Support Packages from the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force include medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.

- High profile vehicles from the Texas National Guard will help stranded motorists.

- Personnel from the Texas Department of Transportation will monitor road conditions.

- Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will assist with flood rescues.

- Helicopters with hoist capabilities, troopers, and marine units from the Department of Public Safety are on standby.

- Disaster Assessment Agents from the A&M AgriLife Extension Service will support agricultural needs.

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

- The Railroad Commission is overseeing natural gas supply communications with oil and gas industries.

- Environmental monitoring by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality includes air, water, and wastewater checks.

This activation follows recent statewide flooding recovery efforts. Texans are encouraged to stay informed through local officials' directions, make an emergency plan, and prepare an emergency supply kit.

For more information on tropical weather safety, visit TexasReady.gov. Beach safety tips can be found at weather.gov, rip current safety at noaa.gov, and general preparedness tips at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.