Texas State Operations Center Increases Readiness to Level II

Tropical Storm Nicholas is forecast to begin impacting the Texas coast today. In response to severe weather threats along the Gulf Coast, Gov. Greg Abbott ordered the Texas State Operations Center (SOC) to increase its readiness to Level II-Escalated Response as of this morning.

Tropical Storm Nicholas is expected to bring significant rainfall and flooding to the entire Gulf Coast as it moves slowly across the state. The governor urges Texans to prepare now, pay close attention to local forecasts and heed all warnings of local officials.

“The State Operations Center has increased its readiness and is prepared to assist local officials in their response to Tropical Storm Nicholas,” said Abbott. “As this storm approaches Texas, I urge our Southeast Texas and Gulf Coast communities to prepare now to protect themselves and their loved ones from the severe weather conditions that Tropical Storm Nicholas will bring.”

This past weekend, the governor activated resources to assist local communities impacted by this storm:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force One): six swift water rescue boat squads and eight overhead packages
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: game warden boat teams
• Texas Military Department: five ground transportation platoons with high profile vehicles
• Texas Department of State Health Services: Texas Emergency Medical Task Force (EMTF) Severe weather packages

Flood Safety Tips

gov.texas.gov/hurricane