Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe storms expected to impact much of Texas starting tonight and continuing through the weekend.

"Texas stands ready to deploy all emergency resources needed to help local officials respond to potential severe weather across the state," said Governor Abbott. "State and local emergency response partners are actively monitoring weather conditions and are on standby to provide all necessary resources to protect Texans and our communities. Texans are encouraged to regularly monitor road conditions, make an emergency plan, and heed the guidance of state and local officials."

The National Weather Service reports that a storm system will move through Texas, bringing risks including large hail, damaging winds, possible tornadoes, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding. The initial threat is focused on West Texas, the Panhandle, South Plains, and North Texas. As the weekend progresses, risk areas will expand south and east to include regions such as the Concho Valley, Permian Basin, Big Country, Hill Country, Piney Woods, Brazos Valley, Golden Triangle, Deep East Texas as well as South, Central, and Southeast Texas.

Authorities note that recent drought conditions may worsen flash flooding due to rapid water runoff. Residents are advised to monitor local forecasts for updates.

In response to these threats:

- Swiftwater rescue teams from Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Task Force 2 have been mobilized for flood rescues.

- The Texas Emergency Medical Task Force is preparing medical teams with ambulances and all-terrain vehicles.

- The Texas National Guard is providing high-profile vehicles and helicopters equipped for flood response.

- The State of Texas Incident Management Team will support coordination across deployed resources.

- Game Wardens from the Parks and Wildlife Department are preparing boats and helicopters for rescues.

- The Department of Public Safety is deploying helicopters with hoist capability along with Highway Patrol Troopers.

- Transportation personnel will monitor road conditions statewide.

- Agents from AgriLife Extension Service will assist with agricultural needs assessment.

- The Public Utility Commission is overseeing power outage responses in collaboration with utility providers.

- The Railroad Commission is monitoring natural gas supplies while communicating with oil and gas operators.

- Environmental Quality staff will oversee air, water, and wastewater monitoring.

Residents are urged by officials to prepare emergency kits containing essential supplies. They can find severe weather safety tips at https://www.texasready.gov/, check real-time road status at https://drivetexas.org/, access flood information at https://texasflood.org/, or review general preparedness resources at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.

###