Latest news with #TexasReady.gov
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Abbott encourages Texans to participate in emergency supplies tax-free weekend
Apr. 24—AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) on Thursday encouraged Texans to participate in this year's Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday starting Saturday, April 26, through Monday, April 28. "Having emergency supplies on-hand is one of the best ways Texans can keep themselves and their loved ones safe during emergency weather events," Abbott said in a news release. "I encourage all Texans to take advantage of this tax-free holiday to purchase emergency supplies, such as flashlights, first aid kids, or fire extinguishers, in order to be prepared for any potential severe weather or disasters." The Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday was established in 2015 after Governor Abbott signed Senate Bill 904 into law. It allows Texans to purchase certain emergency preparation supplies tax free, in-store or online, during the designated weekend each year. The Texas Comptroller's website contains more information about eligible items and qualifying purchases. With spring storms in the forecast and hurricane season beginning on June 1, Texans are encouraged to take advantage of this annual opportunity and proactively prepare an emergency supply kit. Texans are urged to review disaster preparedness tips at and visit to locate information on emergency planning resources, including guidance on assembling a supply kit.
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Houston weather: How do you know if you're in a flood risk area?
The Brief Waves of heavy storms will move across the Houston area with 4-6" totals possible and a few strong to severe storms, too. Local officials are preparing for the storms. Multiple platforms can be used to track flood conditions in real time. HOUSTON - As rain moves into the Houston area on Thursday and Friday, preps are underway. What we know Commissioner Lesley Briones said Precinct 4 Road & Bridge crews were out Wednesday clearing drainage systems, cleaning ditches, and ensuring water flows where it should to reduce the risk of street flooding in unincorporated Harris County. "Looking for any kind of blockage we might have in a curb inlet, debris in a ditch, anyone who left a trashcan," said Walter Hambrick, the precinct's Director of Road and Bridge. He says those who live in areas with road-side drainage systems should be aware. "If you park your vehicle on the curb in a neighborhood, be aware of what the water is doing overnight. And also be cautious that you're not blocking an inlet that would slow down the water from draining into your neighborhood," he said. State action On a broader scale, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of the threats of severe weather. "Texas is prepared to deploy all resources needed to support local communities in South and Southeast Texas as they prepare to respond to severe weather and flash flooding," said Governor Abbott in a press release. For Houstonians, the rainfall is supposed to be between two to four inches between Thursday and Friday, not causing a huge flood threat. But neighbors further south in Brazoria, Matagorda, Wharton, Jackson and Calhoun counties could see several inches more. What you can do Knowing the flood risk in your area is extremely important. The National Water Prediction Service has an interactive map that highlights observed flooding areas. It updates with forecasts and rainfall so you can keep up-to-date with conditions in a specific area. The Harris County Flood Control District also has an interactive map that shows active floodways and the surrounding areas, so you can determine how close you are to a floodway at any given time. The Govorner's press release also lists resources including flood conditions at road conditions at flood safety information at and general preparedness tips at The Source Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Commissioner Lesley Briones' Precinct 4, FOX 26 Weather Models
