Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources in preparation for heavy rainfall expected over Labor Day weekend. The announcement comes as forecasts indicate that a storm system will bring significant rain across much of Texas, including West, North, Central, East, and Southeast regions.
“Texas continues to closely monitor weather conditions for potential heavy rainfall across the state,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe weather. Texans are urged to have an emergency plan, and heed the guidance of state and local officials to keep loved ones and themselves safe. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
The National Weather Service reports that excessive rainfall could lead to hazardous travel conditions and flash flooding in some areas. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local forecast updates.
In response to the weather threat, several agencies are deploying resources:
– Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) is sending swiftwater rescue boat squads.
– The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is providing game wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capability.
– The Texas National Guard will have Blackhawk helicopters ready for rescue operations.
– The Texas Department of State Health Services is preparing 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.
– The Texas Department of Public Safety is making available helicopters with hoist capabilities as well as Highway Patrol Troopers and Tactical Marine Unit members.
– Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will support agricultural needs.
– The Public Utility Commission of Texas will monitor power outages and coordinate with utility providers.
– The Railroad Commission of Texas is monitoring natural gas supplies and communicating with the oil and gas industry.
– The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will conduct air, water, and wastewater monitoring.
Officials advise Texans to prepare by creating an emergency plan, assembling a kit with necessary supplies, and following directions from authorities. Additional safety tips can be found at https://texasready.gov/, road condition updates at https://drivetexas.org/, flood information at https://texasflood.org/, and general preparedness guidelines at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
