In preparation for severe thunderstorms happening Thursday, Gov. Greg Abbott released a statement and has mobilized the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM).
“Texas is ready to swiftly respond with emergency resources to help local officials keep their communities safe amid severe weather,” said Abbott.
“Texans in at-risk areas are encouraged to remain vigilant, regularly monitor weather conditions, and take necessary safety precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones. I thank all of the brave emergency personnel as they prepare to protect their fellow Texans during this severe weather.”
Severe thunderstorms are expected to sweep through the eastern half of Texas on Thursday, according to The National Weather Service.
The NWS forecasts an elevated risk of tornadoes accompanied by threats of damaging winds, large hail, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding.
Governor Abbott’s directive places various emergency response resources on standby, ready to support operations in areas potentially affected by the impending severe weather.
TDEM has several resources that have been placed on standby in case conditions worsen, please see below.
• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1): Boat Squads & Urban Search and Rescue Teams
• 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 Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens and Boat Squads
• Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel and equipment to assist with traffic control and road closures
• Texas Department of Public Safety: Texas Highway Patrol Troopers
• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents
• Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordinating with utility providers in the threat area