Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to raise the readiness level of the Texas State Emergency Operations Center (SOC) to Level III, indicating increased preparedness as severe storms are expected across the state this week.
“In preparation for forecasted severe storms, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to increase the readiness level of the State Operations Center,” Governor Abbott stated. “Texas stands ready to respond and swiftly deploy all necessary resources to support local officials with response operations and ensure the safety of Texans. Texans are urged to remain weather-aware and heed the guidance of state and local officials and emergency response personnel to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
The National Weather Service reports that a storm system beginning today could bring heavy rainfall resulting in flash flooding in many parts of Texas, including West, North, Central, Southwest, and East regions. The storms may also produce damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes. More storms are predicted for early next week. Residents are advised to stay informed through local forecasts.
Governor Abbott has ordered TDEM to call representatives from various agencies within the Texas Emergency Management Council to report for 24-hour operations at the SOC. These agencies include:
– Texas Department of Transportation
– Texas A&M Forest Service
– Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force)
– Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service
– Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
– Texas Department of Public Safety
– Texas National Guard
Additional emergency response resources have been activated ahead of potential flooding. These resources include swiftwater rescue teams from Texas A&M Task Force 1, high-profile vehicles and Blackhawk helicopters from the National Guard for flood response, incident management teams from TDEM, strike teams from the A&M Forest Service, medical support packages from State Health Services, game wardens with rescue boats from Parks and Wildlife, DPS helicopters with hoist capability along with Highway Patrol Troopers and Tactical Marine Unit personnel, transportation staff monitoring road conditions, disaster assessment agents supporting agriculture needs from AgriLife Extension Service, power outage monitoring by the Public Utility Commission, natural gas supply oversight by Railroad Commission staff communicating with industry partners, and environmental quality monitoring by TCEQ.
Yesterday’s directive included activation of these resources in anticipation of storm impacts.
Residents are encouraged to prepare by making emergency plans and assembling disaster supply kits. Officials recommend following warnings issued by local authorities.
For information on road conditions visit DriveTexas.org; for severe weather tips go to TexasReady.gov; for flood safety details see TexasFlood.org; all-hazards preparedness materials can be found at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
