AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Division of Emergency Management has taken proactive measures by activating state emergency response resources in anticipation of potential impacts from excessive rainfall and flash flooding threats due to an approaching storm system across Texas.
Chief Nim Kidd, Texas Emergency Management, emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, "As Texas braces for potentially disruptive wet weather this week, Texans are advised to steer clear of water-covered roads and devise a plan to stay safe from flooded areas. With state emergency response resources ready to aid local communities, residents should stay informed through local weather forecasts and heed instructions from local officials and emergency management personnel."
The National Weather Service forecasts heavy rainfall and an increased risk of flash flooding as a storm system goes through the state, particularly impacting the eastern half of Texas.
TDEM has activated the following state emergency response resources for flood response operations:
Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1): Swiftwater boat squads, high-profile vehicles
Texas National Guard: Personnel, high-profile vehicles
Additionally, the following resources are on standby:
-Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2): Urban Search and Rescue Teams with boat capabilities
-Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens and boat squads
-Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel and equipment for traffic control and road closures
-Texas A&M Forest Service: Incident Management Teams and saw crews
-Texas Department of State Health Services (Emergency Medical Task Force): Severe weather packages
-Texas Department of Public Safety: Tactical Marine Unit and helicopters with hoist capabilities
-Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
Texans are reminded to follow flood preparedness and safety tips during severe weather also:
- Know flood risks in your area.
- Sign up for your community’s warning system.
- Build an emergency supply kit.
- Keep important documents in a waterproof container.
- Protect your property by moving valuables to higher levels and taking preventive measures.
- Exercise extreme caution around water on roads or in other areas and never attempt to cross flowing streams or flooded roadways.