Storm systems are on the horizon for Texas, and Gov. Greg Abbott is looking to get the state on its best footing ahead of the potentially severe weather.
Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) on Sunday to increase the readiness level of the Texas State Operations Center to an escalated response.
“The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all available resources to take care of Texans and our communities as multiple severe weather threats begin to impact the state tomorrow,” Abbott said in a statement.
The National Weather Service issued a warning stating that a system of storms is set to hit the state early this week, bringing with it a range of hazardous conditions. Starting Monday, Texans in different parts of the state can expect to face “strong winds, blowing snow, critical fire weather conditions, and severe thunderstorms.”
The Panhandle is expected to experience heavy snowfall and dangerous wind chills, while West/Southwest Texas may see heightened fire weather conditions. East/Southeast Texas could experience severe thunderstorms with large hail, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding threats.
The entire state could experience strong winds, with gusts reaching 60-70 miles per hour in some parts. As a result, Texans are urged to stay tuned to local weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
“To ensure that support and resources are swiftly deployed to all impacted communities, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to increase the readiness level of the State Operation Center. Texans in at-risk areas are encouraged to remain vigilant, monitor weather conditions, and heed the guidance of local officials and emergency management personnel,” added Abbott.
TDEM has requested various agencies to report to the Texas State Operations Center. The purpose of this is to ensure that the agencies have their resources on standby in case they are needed for deployment. These agencies include the following: the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1), Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force), Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Animal Health Commission, Public Utility Commission of Texas, Railroad Commission of Texas, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Texas National Guard, Texas Department of Information Resources, Texas Education Agency, and the Texas Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.
It is highly recommended that residents of Texas take proactive measures to ensure their safety during emergencies. This includes creating an emergency plan, following instructions from local officials and first responders, and keeping an emergency supply kit readily available. Texans can access valuable resources by visiting the official website TexasReady.gov to stay informed about weather-related risks and proper safety protocols.
Look here for tips to prepare your home for colder weather, including caring for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, as reported by The Dallas Express.
