As severe storms loom on the horizon, Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency, setting the Lone Star State on high alert for a wild weather ride. The storms are set to march across Texas this afternoon, coinciding with an influx of visitors for a much-anticipated solar eclipse. Abbott isn't taking any chances, having directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to get resources in place and to up their emergency response to Level II, or Escalated Response.
With the potential for severe thunderstorms, large hail, and other extreme weather events, the Governor urged residents and visitors to "heed the guidance of state and local officials, remain weather-aware, and monitor road conditions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe." These precautions were specifically outlined in a statement from Abbott's office, where he confirmed mobilizing a full suite of state emergency resources ahead of the approaching tumult. The timing of these severe conditions is particularly troublesome, potentially disrupting the post-eclipse transitions of those gathered to witness the celestial event.
The National Weather Service predicts that the tempest could rage from Monday into Wednesday. Battening down the hatches, Texas agencies have been called in to brace for the impact. Assets at the ready include forest firefighters with heavy gear, emergency medical task forces, and Blackhawk helicopters from the National Guard, as reported by Gov. Texas. TDEM communications groups are engaging with telecom partners to ensure continuity of critical communications during the storms.
San Antonio's KENS 5 reports road closure assistance and traffic control from the Texas Department of Public Safety and additional support ranging from agricultural aid to environmental monitoring by various state departments. Visitors are to pointedly follow local forecasts and have an emergency plan at hand. Texans are also prompted to keep an emergency supply kit nearby, a precautionary measure as the severe weather threatens to put a damper on the eclipse festivities and potentially cause travel chaos.
The state's preparations underscore the gravity of the expected weather conditions. Officials have left no stone unturned, from deploying Texas Highway Patrol Troopers for road closures and traffic control to coordinating with utility providers across the threatened area.
