Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to raise the readiness level of the Texas State Emergency Operations Center (SOC) to Level II, indicating an escalated response. This decision comes as Texas faces severe wildfire conditions and weather threats.
"Texas continues to monitor the heightened wildfire and severe weather threats that are expected to impact large portions of the state," said Governor Abbott. He emphasized the need for swift deployment of resources and support to help Texans prepare and respond. The state is experiencing high winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation, which heighten wildfire risks in West, Central, and South Texas. Additionally, North and East Texas face severe storms that could create hazardous conditions.
The Texas A&M Forest Service warns of extremely critical fire danger across large areas of West, Central, and South Texas. There is a very high risk of wildfires across two-thirds of the state due to high winds and low humidity. The service is monitoring for a potential Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak under current conditions. The state's Wildland Fire Preparedness Level remains at Level 3.
The National Weather Service predicts increased severe storm risks in North and East Texas through the day. These storms could bring tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding.
Governor Abbott has directed TDEM to ensure various agencies are ready to support local wildfire and severe weather responses:
- The Texas A&M Forest Service will deploy over 250 firefighters along with firefighting aircraft.
- The Texas Division of Emergency Management will manage statewide emergency response resources.
- The Texas National Guard will provide helicopters with firefighting capabilities.
- Other departments including Health Services, Public Safety, Parks and Wildlife, Engineering Extension Service, AgriLife Extension Service, Animal Health Commission, Agriculture Department, Transportation Department, Utility Commission, Railroad Commission, Environmental Quality Commission, Health and Human Services Commission, Information Resources Department are also involved in various capacities.
Yesterday's activation by Governor Abbott includes additional emergency resources in preparation for these threats.
Texans who have suffered damage from recent storms are encouraged to report it via TDEM’s online survey tool. Known as iSTAT (Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool), this resource helps assess damage severity but does not replace insurance claims or guarantee disaster relief assistance.
Residents are urged to prepare for potential impacts from wildfires and severe storms by staying informed about local risks and following official guidance. More information on safety measures can be found at several state websites dedicated to emergency preparedness.
