Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the activation of state emergency response resources as remnants of Hurricane Simon threaten parts of West Texas with severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and potentially dangerous flash flooding.
The Texas Division of Emergency Management was directed to support local authorities ahead of the weather system, which is expected to move into the Texas Panhandle before spreading south and east during the week. The National Weather Service said the storms could bring large hail, damaging winds and intense rainfall. ([gov.texas.gov](https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-activates-state-emergency-response-resources-ahead-of-flood-threat-10-13))
Flood watches issued across western Texas
A flood watch issued by the National Weather Service covered parts of the Panhandle and Rolling Plains from Tuesday evening through late Wednesday night. A separate watch for much of western and south-western Texas was due to remain in force from Tuesday evening until Friday morning.
Forecasters warned that repeated thunderstorms and very high rainfall rates could cause flooding in rivers, streams, low-lying areas and locations with poor drainage. Low-water crossings may also become impassable. ([forecast.weather.gov](https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=Flood%2520Watch))
Emergency support available to local communities includes Texas A&M swiftwater rescue squads, urban search and rescue teams, high-profile vehicles, rescue boats and helicopters operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and helicopters and a Tactical Marine Unit from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Medical teams, ambulances and all-terrain vehicles are also being made available, while the Texas Department of Transportation will monitor road and transport conditions. The state’s incident management team and regional emergency personnel will help co-ordinate operations.
Other agencies will track possible disruption to power supplies, natural gas, water and wastewater systems, as well as agricultural and livestock needs. The Texas A&M Forest Service, AgriLife Extension Service, Public Utility Commission, Railroad Commission and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality are among those involved in the wider response. ([gov.texas.gov](https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-activates-state-emergency-response-resources-ahead-of-flood-threat-10-13))
“The State of Texas is prepared to respond to the threat of severe weather and flash flooding across West Texas,” Mr Abbott said. “I urge all Texans to monitor local forecasts, heed guidance from state and local officials, and never drive through flooded roadways.” ([gov.texas.gov](https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-activates-state-emergency-response-resources-ahead-of-flood-threat-10-13))
Residents have been advised to follow local warnings, review family emergency plans and prepare an emergency supply kit. Drivers should avoid flooded roads and check conditions through the state’s DriveTexas service.
