Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a disaster in 29 counties across the state following severe storms and flooding that have wreaked havoc over the past week. The affected counties include Chambers, Galveston, Grimes, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity, and Walker Counties.

Governor Abbott’s Response

In a press release, Governor Abbott stated, The State of Texas continues to provide support and assist communities who have been impacted by recent severe weather and flooding. He emphasized the importance of swift action to provide Texans with the necessary resources for recovery. As the threat of severe weather persists, Abbott urged residents in at-risk areas to stay informed and take precautions to ensure their safety.

Weather Forecast and Risks

According to the National Weather Service, moderate-to-major river flooding is expected across the eastern half of the state, with severe weather and excessive rainfall predicted throughout Texas in the coming days. Risks include flooding, large hail, damaging winds, and possible tornadoes.

State Emergency Response Resources

Under the governor’s direction, state agencies are actively supporting local response efforts. Resources deployed include:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2): Urban Search & Rescue Teams; Swiftwater Boat Squads
• Texas National Guard: UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters with hoist capability; Ground Transportation Platoons with High Profile Vehicles
• Texas Division of Emergency Management: Emergency response personnel to support local requests for assistance

Additional resources are on standby to provide support as needed, including teams for incident management, medical assistance, road closures, law enforcement, and utility coordination.

Assessment and Recovery Efforts

Local and state officials are currently assessing the extent of the damage caused by the storms and flooding. As the situation evolves, officials will continue to identify immediate resource needs and determine eligibility for federal disaster assistance. It is anticipated that more counties may be added to the disaster declaration as assessments progress.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Recovery

As Texas grapples with the aftermath of severe weather, Governor Abbott’s declaration underscores the state’s commitment to supporting affected communities. With ongoing risks of flooding and severe weather, residents are urged to stay vigilant and heed safety warnings. The collaborative efforts of emergency response teams at both the state and local levels are crucial in mitigating the impact of natural disasters and facilitating the recovery process.

For the latest updates and alerts on the situation, residents are encouraged to stay informed through trusted local news sources and official channels. Download The Local News App to your phone to receive real-time updates and critical information during emergencies.

Source