Gov. Greg Abbott said Texas is transitioning from emergency response to long-term recovery after devastating floods swept across large portions of the state last week, damaging hundreds of homes and critical infrastructure.
During an aerial tour of flood-ravaged communities in the Kerrville area on Monday, Abbott surveyed neighborhoods, roads, bridges and other infrastructure impacted by the severe weather before meeting with emergency management officials for an update on recovery operations.
“I want to thank all the first responders, volunteers, and our fellow Texans for the swift and effective response to the floods,” Abbott said in a news release. “We are now transitioning into the process of cleanup and rebuilding.”
Nearly 500 Homes Damaged
Abbott said preliminary assessments have identified approximately 490 homes that sustained damage during the flooding. State officials are working with local governments to speed debris removal and begin rebuilding efforts in the hardest-hit communities.
“The state is working with local officials to expedite debris removal and accelerate the rebuilding process,” Abbott said.
The governor also encouraged Texans who want to support flood victims to donate through Rebuild Texas, which provides assistance to communities recovering from natural disasters.
State Resources Remain Deployed
Abbott said Texas continues operating under an elevated emergency response posture and is providing all necessary resources to affected communities.
Those resources include:
- Emergency personnel
- Aircraft
- Rescue boats
- High-water vehicles
- Additional equipment supporting local response and recovery efforts
The governor was joined during the aerial assessment by Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd and Texas Military Department Adjutant General Thomas Suelzer.
Following the helicopter tour, Abbott met with state and local emergency officials to receive updates on:
- Search and rescue operations
- Debris removal
- Infrastructure restoration
- Ongoing recovery efforts
Officials Urge Continued Caution
Although recovery efforts are underway, Abbott urged Texans in flood-affected areas to remain vigilant as weather conditions continue to evolve.
He encouraged residents to:
- Monitor local weather forecasts
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways
- Follow guidance from local and state emergency officials
State Continues Recovery Efforts
Abbott was joined at a news conference by Chief Kidd, General Suelzer, Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, local emergency management officials and other state and local leaders involved in the response.
State officials said Texas will continue coordinating with local, state and federal partners until recovery efforts are complete and impacted communities are fully restored.
Residents seeking flood recovery resources, preparedness information or disaster assistance can find updates through the Texas Division of Emergency Management and other official state emergency management resources. Road conditions across Texas continue to be monitored as recovery operations progress.
