Texas Gov. Abbott declares disaster for Rio Grande Valley

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for the Rio Grande Valley following Thursday's heavy rainfall and flooding.

On Saturday, Gov. Abbott announced his declaration for Cameron Hidalgo, Starr, and Willacy Counties, which were impacted by severe rainfall and flooding.

"Texas continues to support local communities in South Texas impacted by heavy rainfall and flash flooding," said Gov. Abbott. "Today, I issued a disaster declaration for Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, and Willacy counties to help local officials respond to protect Texans."

In the disaster declaration, the Texas State Emergency Operants Center remains at Level II, an escalated response, which will coordinate state assistance to the impacted communities.

The following are the state emergency response resources that will remain engaged in support of local flooding, severe weather and wildfire response:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service; Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 3: Swiftwater rescue boats squads, flood water boat squads
• Texas A&M Forest Service
• Texas Division of Emergency Management
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
• Texas Department of Public Safety
• Texas National Guard
• Texas Department of State Health Services; Texas Emergency Medical Task Force
• Texas Department of Transportation
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
• Public Utility Commission of Texas
• Railroad Commission of Texas
• Texas Commission on Eviromental Quality

Those impacted by this week's storm are encouraged to report damage to homes and businesses to the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool.

Those who submit a damage report can help state and local officials assess the full scope of the disaster and determine what additional resources are needed in the community.

Drivers are advised to stay informed, avoid driving through flooded roads, and heed all warnings from local officials.