Texas Gov. Greg Abbott activated state emergency resources on Thursday as a tropical weather system threatens the Southeast and East Texas regions.
The system is expected to bring heavy rains and dangerous rip currents to coastal areas in the coming days. The preemptive move mobilizes rescue teams, medical units, and monitoring agencies while the state continues recovering from recent flooding.
“Texas is prepared to provide all necessary resources to support local officials as a severe storm system moves along the Gulf Coast towards East and Southeast Texas and the Texas Coast,” Abbott said. “Texans are urged to take all necessary precautions for potential tropical weather, including monitoring forecasts and road conditions and having an emergency plan to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”
The National Hurricane Center is tracking the system as it moves across the northeastern Gulf Coast. Weather officials warn of heavy rain threats for inland areas and dangerous rip currents along beaches.
Abbott directed multiple state agencies to prepare response teams. Texas A&M Task Force 1 will deploy swiftwater rescue boat squads for potential flood operations.
The Texas National Guard readied high-profile vehicles to reach stranded motorists. Parks and Wildlife game wardens prepared rescue boats and helicopters with hoist capabilities.
Medical teams assembled severe weather support packages with ambulances and all-terrain vehicles. The Department of Public Safety positioned helicopters and its Tactical Marine Unit for water rescues.
State officials will monitor power outages, road conditions, and environmental impacts to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. The Railroad Commission will track natural gas supplies while coordinating with oil and gas operators.
Emergency management officials urged Texans to monitor local forecasts and prepare emergency kits. Safety resources are available at TexasReady.gov, with beach and rip current information at weather.gov and noaa.gov.
The activation comes as state resources remain deployed for ongoing flood recovery efforts. Abbott emphasized the need for continued monitoring as weather conditions develop over the next several days.