Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources in advance of severe storms expected to impact West Texas over the coming weekend.
“Texas stands ready to deploy all resources and support needed to help communities across the state respond to severe storms anticipated this weekend,” said Governor Abbott. “With the potential for tornadoes, heavy rain, and flash flooding, people in West Texas are urged to monitor road conditions before traveling, heed the guidance of local and emergency officials, and check local weather forecasts to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
The National Weather Service has forecasted that severe thunderstorms could affect several regions in western Texas, including the Panhandle, South Plains, Far West Texas, Big Bend, Permian Basin, Concho Valley, and Big Country. These storms may bring damaging wind, large hail, possible tornadoes, heavy rainfall, and an increased risk of flash flooding from later tonight through early next week. The Texas Emergency Management Council is also keeping watch on dry areas elsewhere in the state where wildfire danger remains high.
In preparation for these threats, multiple agencies have been mobilized:
– The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) will provide Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads for flood rescues.
– The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will have Game Wardens along with rescue boat teams and helicopters equipped with hoists.
– The Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force) is preparing Severe Weather Support Packages including medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.
– The Texas Department of Transportation will monitor road conditions throughout affected areas.
– The Texas Department of Public Safety is deploying helicopters with hoist capabilities as well as Highway Patrol Troopers and its Tactical Marine Unit.
– The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will offer Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents along with County Extension Agents for agricultural needs.
– The Public Utility Commission of Texas will oversee power outage monitoring in coordination with utility providers.
– The Railroad Commission of Texas is set to monitor natural gas supply lines while maintaining communication with oil and gas operators.
– The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will be responsible for air, water, and wastewater monitoring.
Residents are encouraged to follow local official instructions closely by making emergency plans and assembling essential supplies. For further information about preparedness or safety tips related to severe weather or floods, Texans can visit https://texasready.gov/, check current road conditions at https://drivetexas.org/, access flood safety information at https://texasflood.org/, or find additional preparedness resources at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
