Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of a tropical weather system forecasted to affect the Texas Gulf Coast starting Friday.

"As Texas braces for incoming heavy rain and strong winds along the Gulf Coast and South Texas, I activated emergency response resources to help local officials protect their fellow Texans,” said Governor Abbott. "This tropical system could lead to dangerous travel conditions and potential flash flooding. Texans are urged to take all necessary precautions for potential tropical weather, regularly check road conditions before traveling, and have an emergency plan to keep themselves and their loved ones safe."

The National Weather Service forecasts that the approaching system will bring significant rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding across parts of South Texas and the Gulf Coast. These weather events may cause hazardous travel conditions as well as flash flooding in some areas. Residents are encouraged to prepare by making an emergency plan, assembling supply kits, following local officials’ guidance, and ensuring essential items are easily accessible.

At Governor Abbott’s instruction, several agencies have been mobilized:

- The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) will provide swiftwater rescue boat squads for flood rescues.

- The Texas A&M Forest Service is deploying strike teams with personnel and fire engines for all-hazards support.

- The Department of State Health Services is sending medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles through its Severe Weather Support Package.

- The Texas National Guard will operate Blackhawk helicopters equipped with hoist capabilities for rescues as well as high-profile vehicles for assisting stranded motorists.

- TDEM’s Incident Management Team will coordinate statewide deployment of resources.

- The Department of Transportation will monitor road conditions.

- Game Wardens from Parks and Wildlife will participate in rescue operations using boats and helicopters with hoist capability.

- The Department of Public Safety is deploying helicopters with hoists alongside Highway Patrol Troopers and its Tactical Marine Unit.

- AgriLife Extension agents are on hand for disaster assessment concerning agriculture and livestock needs.

- The Public Utility Commission is monitoring power outages while working closely with utility providers.

- The Railroad Commission is overseeing natural gas supplies in communication with oil and gas companies.

- Environmental Quality staff are monitoring air, water, and wastewater systems.

Residents seeking information about storm preparedness can visit https://www.texasready.gov/ or find additional tips at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare. Beach safety guidelines are provided by https://www.weather.gov/, while rip current safety details can be found at https://www.noaa.gov/.