Gov. Abbott prepares resources ahead of expected winter weather
AUSTIN - Governor Greg Abbott has placed numerous resources on standby ahead of the significant winter weather and potential flash flooding that is expected to impact Texas.
As the storm system moves across the state Wednesday and Thursday, West Texas is anticipated to receive heavy snowfall and a wintry mix of precipitation, while central and eastern portions of the state will see severe storms with the potential to produce flash flooding and river flooding.
"As winter weather and heavy rain make their way across our state, I urge Texans to be cautious of changing weather conditions and take proactive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones," said Governor Abbott. "The state of Texas has been working closely with local officials to prepare for these storms, and we will continue to provide the resources needed to keep our communities safe."
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At the direction of the governor, the Texas Division of Emergency Management has rostered the following state resources to support both winter and severe weather response operations:
Texas A&M Forest Service: Saw Crews and Incident Management Teams
Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force One and Two): 4 boat squads; 1 Type III Urban Search And Rescue package
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Boats and Teams to support Water Rescue Operations as well as 4 wheel drive vehicles and personnel to support winter weather response operations for stranded motorists.
Texas Department of State Health Services: Emergency Medical Task Force severe weather packages
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): High Profile Vehicles and winter weather preparation/response equipment and crews
Texas Department of Public Safety – Texas Highway Patrol: Helicopters with hoist capability
Texas Public Utility Commission: Utility Outage monitoring and reporting.
Additionally, TxDOT has begun treating roadways across West Texas ahead of the expected winter weather.