Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources Sunday as slow-moving storms and heavy rain threatened flash flooding across much of Texas.
The state placed swiftwater rescue teams, urban search and rescue crews, rescue swimmers, high-profile vehicles, helicopters, medical teams and road-monitoring personnel on standby to support local officials. The threat covers parts of North, West, Central, South and East Texas through the week, according to the governor’s office.
“The State of Texas will deploy all necessary resources to help local officials respond to potential severe weather and flash flooding across the state,” Abbott said. “I urge all Texans to monitor local forecasts, heed guidance from state and local officials, and always remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Texas will support our communities as these threats develop.”
North Texas faces isolated flooding risk
The National Weather Service in Fort Worth said scattered showers and thunderstorms could affect much of North and Central Texas through Tuesday. Slow-moving storms may produce locally heavy rain and isolated flooding, while stronger storms could bring gusty winds and small hail.
Forecasters expected additional storms to develop late Sunday night and move slowly south through the region Monday. Rainfall will vary by location, but repeated storms could quickly create dangerous conditions on roads and in low-lying areas.
State positions rescue and medical resources
Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2 can deploy swiftwater rescue boat squads, urban search and rescue teams and rescue swimmers. The Texas National Guard has personnel, high-profile vehicles and Black Hawk helicopters available for stranded motorists and flood rescues.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Department of Public Safety can provide rescue boats, marine units and helicopters with hoist capability. The Texas Emergency Medical Task Force has medics, ambulances and all-terrain vehicles ready to support local operations.
TxDOT personnel are monitoring road conditions, while state utility, environmental and energy regulators are tracking power outages, water systems and the natural-gas supply.
Officials urge Texans to prepare
State officials urged Texans to review family communication plans, assemble emergency supply kits and follow instructions from local authorities. Drivers can check real-time road conditions at DriveTexas.org before traveling.
Residents can find emergency-planning information at TexasReady.gov, flood information at TexasFlood.org, and additional preparedness guidance through TDEM.
The Dallas Express previously reported that Abbott activated state resources ahead of a separate severe-weather threat in March.
Provided by Dallas Express
