Texas Gov. Activates State Emergency Response Resources Due to Strong Storms

A tornado watch was issued for parts of Texas and Louisiana Thursday night as a line of thunderstorms slammed the south-central United States, threatening the region with huge hail, destructive winds, and heavy rain.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott activated state emergency response resources earlier in the day, anticipating an "increased severe weather threat" in the state's eastern half. 

The governor's office cautioned that severe thunderstorms are expected in parts of north, central, east, and southeast Texas.

Texas prepares emergency resources due to severe weather

"Texas is ready to deploy all available resources to assist local officials in responding to severe weather threats," Abbott stated in a news release. 

"As Texans and out-of-state tourists begin travel following the Christmas holiday, it is critical that everyone constantly monitors road conditions, develops an emergency plan, and follows state and local officials' guidance. I thank all emergency response personnel for their efforts this holiday week to assist their fellow Texans throughout severe storms."

"Given sufficient energy and a pronounced change in wind speed and direction with height in the atmosphere, all modes of severe weather are on the table, including hail, flooding, high winds, and isolated tornadoes," AccuWeather meteorologist Gwen Fieweger stated in an online forecast.

Abbott authorized the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to prepare state resources to respond if needed. Texas A&M Task Force 1 is ready for water and land rescues. The activation includes the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Read more: Pre-Christmas Snow Threatens Washington to Philadelphia