Texas Governor Greg Abbott has activated the state's emergency response resources as heavy rain is forecast to hit multiple regions through the upcoming Labor Day weekend. In a preparation move, Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to coordinate state resources in anticipation of severe weather threats.
Gov. Abbott, understanding the gravity of the situation, issued a statement assuring the public that the state is actively monitoring weather conditions. "Texas continues to closely monitor weather conditions for potential heavy rainfall across the state," he said. "Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe weather." In the statement released by the Office of the Texas Governor, the public has been urged to create an emergency plan and follow local officials' guidance to remain safe during this period.
According to information released by the National Weather Service, a storm system could bring excessive rainfall to West, North, Central, East, and Southeast Texas, potentially leading to flash flooding and hazardous travel conditions. Governor Abbott remains proactive, reiterating the risk of severe weather conditions and the measures Texans should take, including paying attention to local forecasts and remembering the motto: "Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
As part of the emergency response, several state agencies have been mobilized. The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Texas National Guard are among the key groups providing important rescue resources such as Swiftwater rescue boat squads and helicopters with hoist capability. In a release provided by the governor's office, Texans have been urged to prepare proactively by following instructions from local officials, preparing an emergency kit, and making necessary plans for shelter and safety.
Texans can find additional safety tips at TexasReady.gov and check road conditions on DriveTexas.org. For flood information, TexasFlood.org provides necessary resources. All these measures by the Texas Department of Public Safety and other agencies reflect a collaborative effort to mitigate the impact of the anticipated severe weather and to ensure the safety of Texas residents.
