Texas Braces for Heavy Rainfall and Winter Storms as Wildfires Rage in California

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has activated state emergency response resources ahead of heavy rainfall expected to hit East and Southeast Texas starting Thursday. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has deployed swiftwater rescue boat squads from Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) to assist communities at risk of flooding.

“As Texas continues to respond to winter weather across the state, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to deploy additional flood response resources to East and Southeast Texas communities,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans in East and Southeast Texas are urged to regularly monitor roadways before traveling and check TexasFlood.org for flood information. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

According to the governor’s office, more than 3,400 state emergency responders and over 1,800 equipment assets have been mobilized from more than 20 state agencies to support the winter weather response. The state is also dealing with snow in North Texas, where a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until Friday midday.

In Southeast Texas, heavy rain is expected to begin midday Thursday, with the heaviest rainfall occurring later in the afternoon and evening. Models predict 2-4 inches of rain, with the highest amounts near the coast. A Wind Advisory is also in effect along the coast until Friday morning, with gusts up to 40 mph possible.

Meanwhile, devastating wildfires continue to burn in California, adding to the weather-related challenges across the country. The FOX 26 Weather Team has declared Thursday a Storm Alert Day for Southeast Texas, urging residents to prepare for potential street flooding and hazardous driving conditions.

Friday morning will see lingering rain and wet roads, but temperatures are expected to remain above freezing, preventing icy conditions. The weekend will bring a gradual warm-up, with highs reaching the 50s on Saturday and the 60s on Sunday, providing relief for Texans fans heading to NRG Stadium for the playoff game.

“After our cold and wet Friday morning, conditions will improve,” said a FOX 26 meteorologist. “Saturday and Sunday will see a gentle warm-up, making for great tailgating weather for the Texans playoff game.”