(File Photo)
AUSTIN – On July 7, Gov. Rick Perry directed the activation of state search and rescue capabilities, including Texas Military Forces and Texas Task Force 1 (TTF-1) personnel and resources, as heavy rains and flooding continue to threaten the Rio Grande Valley. “As South Texas continues to feel the effects of Hurricane Alex, we are closely monitoring a storm system that is expected to bring more heavy rains to the area and increase flooding along the Rio Grande,” Gov. Perry said. “I urge residents to exercise caution, pay attention to changing conditions and heed the warnings of local officials as this storm system threatens Texas communities.”
Heavy rains from Hurricane Alex have caused flooding of the Rio Grande into neighboring communities. The National Weather Service predicts increased rainfall in South Texas over the next 48 hours, which will exacerbate the already flooded conditions in the area.
The following state resources have been activated:
- 10 Texas Military Forces high profile vehicles and 30 guardsmen in Laredo.
- 2 Texas Military Forces UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and 16 guardsmen in San Antonio.
- TTF1 rescue swimmers in Laredo. Additional TTF1 personnel are on standby for deployment as needed.
Additionally, the Texas Department of Transportation is coordinating road closures in the affected areas as necessary. For more information about road closures, please visit http://www.dot.state.tx.us/travel/road_conditions.htm.
The State Operations Center remains at an increased readiness level and continues to work with the National Weather Service to monitor the storm system.
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