Residents in a whopping 88 counties across the Lone Star State are under the watchful eye of emergency services as Governor Greg Abbott ramps up the disaster declaration in response to severe weather and flooding that continues to batter the region. The governor's office announced the addition of 59 counties into this state of alertness, which could expand should Mother Nature refuse to hold back her wrath.
"As flooding conditions and severe weather continue in multiple regions across Texas, I expanded the disaster declaration to add 59 counties to ensure Texans and their communities receive the assistance and support they need to stay safe," Governor Abbott declared. He urges those in the affected areas to stay sharp, heed the advice of state and local officials, and steer clear of hazardous travel amidst flooding conditions. The governor's statement comes as the National Weather Service forecasts severe thunderstorms with possible hail, violent winds, and potential twisters to rattle various parts of Texas, keeping emergency teams on their toes.
The communities circling rivers and reservoirs are especially on edge, with warnings being blasted about major flooding due to historic water discharges. Overnight, state rescue squads were kept busy with an array of high-water rescue operations, as reported in the governor's statement on the official website. School districts in these high-risk zones are being thrown into disarray, adjusting schedules in response to the relentless storms.
The Texas State Emergency Operations Center is in full swing, operating at Level II (Escalated Response) to back up localities clamoring for aid. Amid the deluge, Texans are being hammered with reminders to stay tuned to local forecasts, concoct an emergency game plan, and follow through with the commands of emergency personnel. Stern warnings against attempting to navigate through flooded roads or dodge barricades have been reiterated. Resources and tips for flood preparation and emergency action can be accessed at various state-operated websites, aiming to cushion residents from the ongoing siege of inclement weather.
Governor Abbott’s proactive stance has included the rally of state emergency resources in anticipation of the natural onslaught—measures taken reflect a profound awareness of the dangers that severe weather poses to Texans. In the face of these escalating threats, the state dedicates its efforts to secure and preserve the well-being of its residents.
