TDEM deploys resources ahead of flash flood threat

AUSTIN - At the direction of Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has activated state emergency response resources ahead of severe storms and potential flash flooding expected to impact the state beginning today through the end of this week.

“As the remnants of Hurricane Norma move across the state, the Texas Emergency Management Council is closely monitoring weather conditions in order to support any needs from our local emergency management partners,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “Texans are urged to heed warnings from local officials and never drive through flooded roadways.”

According to the National Weather Service, moisture from Hurricane Norma is making its way into the state, increasing the threat of heavy rainfall and flash flooding. Texans are advised to monitor local forecasts.

At the Governor’s direction, TDEM has activated the following resources to support severe weather and flash flooding response operations across the state:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1): Swiftwater Boat Squads staged across the Concho Valley and Big Country regions of the state.

• Texans are urged to follow these flood preparedness and safety tips during severe weather events:

• Know types of flood risk in your area. Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center for information here: fema. gov/portal/home

• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

• Build an emergency supply kit. For more information on how to build a kit, visit: gov/kit

• Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. Homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect so the time to buy is well before a disaster. Get flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

• Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies.

• Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.

• Be extremely cautious of any water on roads or in creeks, streams, storm drains, or other areas – never attempt to cross flowing streams or drive across flooded roadways and always observe road barricades placed for your Remember, Turn Around Don’t Drown.

For more flood safety tips, visit TexasReady.gov.