Texas Governor Greg Abbott has taken proactive measures by directing the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to ready state emergency response resources due to the anticipated risk of heavy rainfall and flash flooding this coming weekend. As reported by the Governor's office, the activation comes in response to weather forecasts predicting significant precipitation from the lingering effects of Hurricane Lorena in combination with a cold front, which may result in high levels of rainfall and potential flooding across multiple regions of the state.
"Texas stands ready to assist local officials as severe weather threatens communities across the state," Governor Abbott stated. He urged Texans to follow precautions, monitor the evolving weather conditions, and take heed of instructions provided by state and local authorities. With emphasis on public safety, Governor Abbott reminded residents, "Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Specifically, the Governor has made available a variety of resources to support local severe weather operations, including swiftwater rescue boat squads from Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department game wardens, and Texas National Guard helicopters with hoisting abilities for high-water rescues. Medical support is also being provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services in the form of a Severe Weather Support Package comprised of medics and ambulances.
Other emergency personnel, from the Texas Department of Transportation to the Texas Department of Public Safety, have been mobilized to offer assistance, monitoring road conditions, performing rescues, and maintaining safety protocols. Beyond public safety, infrastructure and environmental monitoring are being handled by entities such as the Public Utility Commission of Texas, the Railroad Commission of Texas, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, focusing respectively on power outages, natural gas supplies, and air/water quality assessment. According to the Governor's official statement, the state is fully coordinated in its emergency response efforts.
Citizens are encouraged to stay informed and prepared by creating an emergency plan and assembling a kit with essential supplies. For updates on severe weather safety, road conditions, and flood information, Texans can visit websites such as TexasReady.gov, DriveTexas.org, and TexasFlood.org. Additionally, broad preparedness tips can be found at tdem.texas.gov/prepare, intended to guide the public through all-hazard scenarios.
.jpg){kind=link}