Texas prepares for weekend flash floods

AUSTIN (KFDX/KJTL) — Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources before severe weather and flash flooding that are expected over the weekend.

Just one week after flooding hit the Texas Hill Country, the National Weather Service announced that severe storms are forecasted to produce large flash floods across large portions of Northwest Texas, far West Texas, North Texas, the Big Country, Permian Basin, Concho County and the Hill Country.

These storms are expected to start in Wichita Falls Saturday, July 12, in the afternoon and they will continue throughout the weekend.

“Texas continues to stand ready to deploy all necessary resources to support Texans as severe storms move across our state,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, I activated state emergency response resources to support local officials and first responders ahead of severe weather and flash flooding threats starting tonight and through the weekend. I urge Texans to remain weather-aware and heed the guidance of state and local officials to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones.” 

TDEM has activated Texas A&M Task Force 1’s swiftwater rescue boat squads to support storm response operations. These preparations come after the ongoing response and recovery efforts continue in the Hill Country of the state.

Texans are told to stay informed, listen to local leaders and stay up-to-date on weather conditions. Visit DriveTexas.org to check on road conditions in your area. For flood safety information, go to TexasReady.gov and get flood information at TexasFlood.org. General preparedness tips can be found at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.