Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott spoke from the State Operations Center in Austin to give an update on how the state is working together to deal with the severe flooding that is still affecting many parts of Texas. The Governor underlined the significance of public safety and staying alert as heavy rains continue to pose major threats in places like the Big Country, Concho Valley, Central Texas, and Kerr County.
Governor Abbott talked about the damage he saw at Camp Mystic during the press conference, saying it was “nothing short of horrific.” He stressed that the state is broadening its efforts to include more locations, but it will continue to pay close attention to those that have been struck hard, like Kerrville.
“We are not reducing our focus in the Kerrville area,” Abbott said, warning of possible dangers in the next 24 to 48 hours. “If there’s any water on the road, the most important thing you can do is to protect your lives. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Abbott expressed gratitude to President Donald Trump for signing a Major Disaster Declaration, which made it possible for federal help to get there quickly. He was joined by top state officials like TDEM Chief Nim Kidd and DPS Colonel Freeman Martin. The Governor also complimented Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, for coming to Kerr County in person and looking at what was needed.
The Governor advised Texans to stay alert, follow official guidance, and check DriveTexas.org for updates on road conditions as flooding risks increase.
The State of Texas has put together a large emergency response, with more than 1,500 people and more than 925 trucks and pieces of equipment already on the ground. The operation involves more than 20 state entities that offer a wide range of services, such as search and rescue missions, infrastructure evaluations, and animal care.
Key agencies contributing to the effort include:
- Texas A&M Task Forces and Parks & Wildlife for swiftwater and aerial rescues
- The Texas National Guard for high-water vehicle support and damage evaluations
- The Department of Transportation and A&M Forest Service for road monitoring and clearing
- The Public Utility Commission and Railroad Commission for utility and energy oversight
- The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for monitoring water quality
- Emergency Medical Task Force teams for mobile health support
Texans who have had damage to their property should utilize the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) at damage.tdem.texas.gov to tell the state about their losses. These surveys, which people fill out themselves, help officials better understand what people need and how to best use resources.
Governor Abbott said again that the state remains dedicated to doing everything it can to help local communities. Abbott said that Texas will stay fully involved as long as the threat remains, from getting the State Operations Center ready to widening the disaster declaration. Texans can go to disaster.texas.gov for further information and help.
