Governor Greg Abbott has taken steps to prepare Texas for upcoming winter weather conditions. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has been directed to activate resources in anticipation of hazardous impacts expected in the Texas Panhandle. Governor Abbott also requested the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to join state and local officials in assessing damage from recent wildfires and severe storms across South and North Texas.
"With below-freezing temperatures and snow expected in the Panhandle this weekend, Texas is prepared to deploy all resources and assistance needed to help local communities respond," said Governor Abbott. He urged residents to stay informed about weather updates, follow official guidance, and check DriveTexas.org before traveling.
The National Weather Service forecasts snow beginning tonight in the Panhandle, High Plains, and South Plains areas with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snowfall may exceed four inches, potentially causing significant travel disruptions.
Wildfire danger persists due to high winds and dry conditions in West, Northwest, and South Texas through midweek next week. Severe weather risks increase over the weekend across North and East Texas with threats including damaging wind, tornadoes, large hail, and heavy rainfall.
In response to these challenges, TDEM activated several state emergency response resources:
- The Texas Department of Transportation is pre-treating roadways.
- The Texas National Guard will assist stranded motorists.
- The Department of Public Safety will patrol roads.
Additional resources remain engaged for wildfire and severe weather recovery efforts:
- The Texas A&M Forest Service provides firefighting personnel.
- TDEM supports emergency response teams statewide.
- Health services are deploying medical support packages.
- Search-and-rescue teams are on standby from various agencies.
Officials continue reviewing disaster damage reports submitted by Texans through TDEM’s Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT). Residents are encouraged to report damages via iSTAT when safe.
For road conditions updates visit DriveTexas.org; preparedness information can be found at tdem.texas.gov/prepare; safety tips are available at TexasReady.gov.
