Heavy rainfall expected in Texas Panhandle prompts activation of flood response operations

Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate emergency response resources as forecasters warn of excessive rainfall in the Texas Panhandle, raising serious concerns about flash flooding through the end of the week.

“With heavy rainfall expected to hit the Panhandle this week, the State of Texas stands ready to deploy all resources needed in preparation for potential flooding,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans are urged to heed the guidance from state and local officials and monitor local forecasts to avoid driving into flooded areas. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

Forecasts and Flood Risk

According to the National Weather Service, thunderstorms moving across the region could result in dangerous flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas of Northwest Texas. With additional storms expected through the weekend, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant, check local updates frequently, and avoid traveling through high-water areas.

Emergency Resources on Standby

At the Governor’s direction, a wide range of state emergency response resources have been activated to support local officials:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1): Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads prepared to assist in flood rescues.

• Texas A&M Forest Service (Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System): Strike Teams with personnel and fire engines ready to support local fire departments against all hazards.

• Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Severe Weather Support Packages including medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.

• Texas Department of Transportation: Crews monitoring road conditions and providing updates.

• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens, rescue boats, and helicopters with hoist capability to support rescue operations.

• Texas Department of Public Safety: Helicopters, Tactical Marine Unit resources, and Texas Highway Patrol Troopers.

• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents along with County Extension Agents to assist farmers and ranchers with agricultural and livestock needs.

• Public Utility Commission of Texas: Monitoring power outages and coordinating with utility providers.

• Railroad Commission of Texas: Overseeing the state’s natural gas supply and maintaining communication with oil and gas industry representatives.

• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Conducting air, water, and wastewater monitoring to ensure safety.

Safety and Preparedness Guidance

This preparation comes as Texas continues to support communities already working to recover from recent flooding incidents in other regions of the state.

Residents are urged to:

• Follow evacuation orders or local safety instructions if issued.

• Avoid attempting to drive through flooded roads or bridges.

• Develop or review an emergency plan and prepare an emergency supply kit.

• Stay informed using official resources such as TexasReady.gov for flood safety tips, DriveTexas.org for road condition updates, and TexasFlood.org for flood-related information.

• Additional all-hazards preparedness tips can be found at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.

Governor Abbott emphasized that while the state is ready to deploy significant resources, community awareness and cooperation are essential. “Texans should never underestimate the dangers of flash flooding. A single decision to drive through high water can cost lives. Stay alert, stay safe, and take this threat seriously.”