Texas Deploys Rescue Teams Ahead of Flash Flood, Tornado Threat

On Tuesday, Gov. Greg Abbott activated emergency response resources from the state in anticipation of multiple rounds of severe weather projected to affect North, West, and Central Texas through the end of the week.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management is set to coordinate deployments that will include search-and-rescue teams, medical units, and transportation support. This comes as forecasters issue warnings about large hail, damaging winds, potential tornadoes, and heightened flash flood risks.

Storms are expected to sweep across the state starting Tuesday, as heavy rainfall moves eastward over the coming days, prompting concerns about potential flooding in regions already saturated.

“Texas is prepared to mobilize all essential resources to assist Texans as severe storms sweep through our state,” Abbott stated in a press release. “I encourage all Texans to remain informed … develop an emergency plan and follow the advice of state and local authorities.”

State agencies have been mobilized or placed on standby, including the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, which has deployed swiftwater rescue boat teams and urban search-and-rescue crews. Additionally, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has prepared game wardens, boats, and helicopters for potential water rescues.

Emergency medical task forces from the Texas Department of State Health Services and roadway monitoring crews from the Texas Department of Transportation are providing additional support. The Texas A&M Forest Service has mobilized saw crews to remove debris from affected regions.

Authorities are advising residents to avoid flooded roads, emphasizing the crucial safety reminder: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

The imminent severe weather threat coincides with ongoing wildfire response efforts across various regions of the state, as crews continue to support local fire departments.

Emergency officials warned that conditions may shift quickly, urging Texans to stay updated with local forecasts and to prepare emergency kits and communication plans as storms approach.