Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe weather expected to affect Southeast and East Texas starting tomorrow.

"Texas is prepared to swiftly respond to severe storms expected across the southeastern and eastern portion of the state," said Governor Abbott. "Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate all necessary resources to assist Texas communities ahead of potential severe weather. 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 forecasts that a strong storm system with a cold front will move through East and Southeast Texas, bringing heavy rainfall that could cause flash flooding. Other risks include damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes. The threat may continue through the holiday weekend, so residents are advised to keep up with local weather updates.

To support local storm response operations, several state agencies have been mobilized. Resources made available include swiftwater rescue boat squads from Texas A&M Task Force 1; medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles from the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force; game wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capability from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; helicopters with hoist capability, Highway Patrol Troopers, and Tactical Marine Unit personnel from the Department of Public Safety; road condition monitoring by the Department of Transportation; disaster assessment agents for agricultural needs from AgriLife Extension Service; power outage monitoring by the Public Utility Commission; oversight of natural gas supply by the Railroad Commission; and air, water, and wastewater monitoring by the Commission on Environmental Quality.

Emergency management officials are also watching for colder temperatures forecasted early next week. There is a possibility of snowfall and icy conditions in Northwest Texas along with sub-freezing temperatures. Texans are advised to prepare emergency kits and follow instructions from local authorities.

Residents can find storm safety tips at https://texasready.gov/, real-time road conditions at https://drivetexas.org/, flood safety information at https://texasflood.org/, and preparedness resources at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.