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For Immediate Distribution | January 21, 2024 | media@tdem.texas.gov
Texas Division of Emergency Management Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead of Rainfall and Flooding Threat Across Texas
AUSTIN - The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has activated state emergency response resources ahead of anticipated impacts from excessive rainfall and flash flooding threats from a storm system moving across Texas over the next few days.
"As Texas prepares for the potential for disruptive wet weather this week, Texans are urged to avoid water-covered roadways and make a plan to stay safe from any flooded areas," said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. "With state emergency response resources ready to support the needs of local communities, Texans should monitor local weather forecasts and follow directions from local officials and emergency management personnel."
According to the National Weather Service, a storm system moving across the state through mid-week is expected to bring heavy rainfall and potential for flash flooding, with the higher risks anticipated in the eastern half of Texas.
TDEM has activated the following state emergency response resources to support flood response operations:
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Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1): Swiftwater boat squads, high profile vehicles
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Texas National Guard: Personnel, high-profile vehicles
Additionally, TDEM has placed the following resources on standby to support flood operations as warranted:
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Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2): Urban Search and Rescue Teams with boat capabilities
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Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens and boat squads
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Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel and equipment to assist with traffic control and road closures
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Texas A&M Forest Service: Incident Management Teams and saw crews
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Texas Department of State Health Services (Emergency Medical Task Force): Severe weather packages
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Texas Department of Public Safety: Tactical Marine Unit and helicopters with hoist capabilities
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Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
Texans are urged to follow these flood preparedness and safety tips during severe weather events:
- Know types of flood risk in your area. Learn the basics of flooding.
- Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provide emergency alerts.
- Build an emergency supply kit. For more information on how to build a kit, visit: texasready.gov
- Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies.
- Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.
- Be extremely cautious of any water on roads or in creeks, streams, storm drains, or other areas. Never attempt to cross flowing streams or drive across flooded roadways and always observe road barricades placed for your protection. Remember, turn around don’t drown.
For more flood safety tips, visit TexasReady.gov.
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