Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of a forecasted period of heavy rain that could cause flash flooding across the state this weekend.

"Texas stands ready to assist local officials as severe weather threatens communities across the state," said Governor Abbott. "Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state resources in anticipation of potential flash flooding. Texans are urged to take all necessary precautions for severe weather, monitor forecasts and road conditions, heed guidance from state and local officials, and create an emergency plan to keep themselves and loved ones safe. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

The National Weather Service has reported that moisture from Hurricane Lorena’s remnants is expected to combine with a cold front, which may result in excessive rainfall and flash flooding in West, Northwest, Central, South, and Southeast Texas. There is also a risk of severe storms in North and Northeast Texas with possible damaging winds and large hail. Residents are advised to monitor local forecasts closely.

In response to these threats, several state 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 Parks and Wildlife Department will deploy game wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters equipped with hoists.

- The Texas National Guard will make Blackhawk helicopters available for rescue operations.

- The Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force) will supply medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles as part of its Severe Weather Support Package.

- The Texas Department of Transportation will have personnel monitoring road conditions throughout the affected areas.

- The Texas Department of Public Safety will use helicopters with hoist capabilities along with Highway Patrol Troopers and the Tactical Marine Unit.

- The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will provide disaster assessment agents and county extension agents to support agricultural needs.

- The Public Utility Commission of Texas will oversee power outage monitoring and coordinate with utility providers.

- The Railroad Commission of Texas will monitor natural gas supplies and communicate with oil and gas companies.

- The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will conduct air, water, and wastewater monitoring.

Texans are encouraged to prepare by following instructions from local authorities, creating an emergency plan, and assembling a kit with necessary supplies. For more information on severe weather safety tips visit https://www.texasready.gov/, for road conditions see https://drivetexas.org/, for flood information go to https://texasflood.org/, or find general preparedness advice at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.