Governor Abbott orders emergency readiness as severe weather threatens parts of Texas
Austin, Texas – In a move aimed at preparing communities across the state for dangerous weather conditions, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that emergency response resources have been activated as severe storms are expected to impact several regions of Texas in the coming days.
The governor directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to mobilize state emergency resources ahead of a severe weather threat forecast to begin today and continue through the weekend. Officials say the decision is meant to ensure local governments and emergency responders have the support they need if storms produce damaging conditions.
Governor Abbott emphasized that the state is prepared to respond quickly if the situation worsens.
“Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary resources to help local officials respond to potential severe weather across the state,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans are urged to remain weather-aware, regularly check road conditions, and heed the guidance of state and local officials to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones. The State of Texas will continue to closely monitor weather conditions to protect the well-being of communities across our state.”
Severe storms expected across multiple regions
According to forecasts from the National Weather Service, several storm systems could develop and move across large portions of Texas over the coming days. The first round of storms is expected to impact North Texas beginning later today, bringing the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms.
As the week progresses, the threat is expected to move westward into areas of Northwest Texas, including the Panhandle, South Plains, Permian Basin, Big Country, and Concho Valley.
Later in the week, forecasters say the severe weather risk may shift again, affecting North Texas, Northeast Texas, and parts of Central Texas. Meteorologists warn that hazardous conditions could continue into early next week.
Weather officials say several types of dangerous conditions may develop as the storms move across the state. Potential hazards include large hail, strong and damaging winds, heavy rainfall capable of causing flash flooding, and possible tornadoes.
State leaders are urging residents to closely follow local forecasts as conditions evolve and to be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Emergency resources activated across Texas
To prepare for potential impacts, Governor Abbott ordered several state agencies and response teams to be ready to assist local communities if needed.
Specialized rescue and emergency response teams are among the resources that have been made available. Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, including Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2, are ready to deploy Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads and Urban Search and Rescue teams to assist with flood rescues if necessary.
The Texas Division of Emergency Management is also deploying the State of Texas Incident Management Team and All-Hazards Group responders to help coordinate emergency operations.
The Texas National Guard has personnel and high-profile vehicles available to assist stranded motorists. The Guard is also prepared to deploy Chinook and Blackhawk helicopters for potential flood rescue operations.
Other agencies have also been placed on alert. The Texas Department of Transportation is monitoring road conditions statewide, while the Texas A&M Forest Service has saw crews prepared to clear roadways blocked by storm damage. Strike teams from the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) are also available to support local emergency services.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has game wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters equipped with hoist capabilities prepared for water rescue operations. Meanwhile, the Texas Department of Public Safety is ready with highway patrol troopers, helicopters, and its tactical marine unit.
Medical support is also part of the state’s preparations. The Texas Department of State Health Services, through the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force, has assembled severe weather support packages that include medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.
Additional agencies are monitoring other potential impacts. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will support agricultural needs and assist livestock owners if disasters affect rural areas. The Public Utility Commission of Texas is monitoring potential power outages and coordinating with utility providers. The Railroad Commission of Texas is monitoring the state’s natural gas supply and communicating with the oil and gas industry. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is responsible for monitoring air, water, and wastewater conditions during the storms.
Meanwhile, the Texas State Emergency Operations Center remains activated at Level III, known as Increased Readiness, to support the state’s severe weather preparations as well as ongoing wildfire response efforts in other parts of Texas.
Officials are encouraging Texans to prepare in advance by assembling emergency supply kits, creating family emergency plans, and following instructions from local officials.
Residents can find safety and preparedness information at TexasReady.gov, check roadway conditions at DriveTexas.org, and review preparedness guidance through the Texas Division of Emergency Management website.
