Governor Abbott Orders Increased Readiness Of State Operations Center As Tropical Storm Cindy Approaches Gulf Coast
As Tropical Storm Cindy approaches the Gulf Coast, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has ordered the State Operations Center to elevate its readiness to level three (increased readiness) from level four (normal conditions) starting at noon Wednesday,.
Abbott has activated four Texas Task Force 1 boat squads and two Texas Military Department vehicle squads -- of five vehicles each -- to respond to emergencies.
Placed on standby are the Department of State Health Services' Emergency Medical Task Force, Texas military forces aircraft, and shelter and feeding teams.
“As we have learned in the past, weather patterns can change rapidly and without warning," Abbott said. "That is why I am imploring all Texans in the Gulf region to stay updated and heed warnings from your local officials, avoid high water areas and refrain from attempting to drive through roadways or over bridges that have the potential to flood. We stand ready to assist local communities in the event of an emergency, and I ask all Texans to keep those in the storm’s path, and our brave first responders, in their prayers as they prepare for this storm."
Other state resources currently engaged in the emergency preparation effort include:
--Department of Public Safety.
--Department of Transportation.
--Commission on Environmental Quality.
--Parks & Wildlife Department.
--Department of State Health Services.
--Public Utility Commission.
--Texas A&M Forest Service.
--Texas Engineering Extension Service.
--American Red Cross
--The Salvation Army.