Abbott Requests SBA to Begin Preliminary Damage Assessments After Storms

Governor Greg Abbott (R-TX) has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to request the Small Business Administration (SBA) to join state and local partners in conducting joint preliminary damage assessments in Southeast Texas communities after severe weather that hit the portion of the Lone Star State. Gov. Abbott activated state emergency response resources on Dec. 26 in anticipation of what resulted in dangerous storms and tornadoes.

The assessments will play a part in determining whether Texas will receive federal funding for disaster assistance.

Gov. Abbott released the following statement on Tuesday:

“Today, I requested the U.S. Small Business Administration join our state and local officials to begin preliminary damage assessments so we can better help our fellow Texans recover quickly from damage caused by the recent storms and tornadoes,” said Gov. Abbott. “This assistance will be a critical first step for Texans to begin to rebuild and recover in Southeast Texas. All Texans impacted by these storms are urged to report sustained damages to their homes or businesses through TDEM’s iSTAT survey.”

The federal teams are expected to arrive on Monday, per Gov. Abbott's office.

Moreover, Gov. Abbott also called on TDEM in preparation for the severe weather, as flooding and search and rescue efforts were anticipated before the storms. Information and resources can be found below:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1): Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads to assist with flood rescues

Additionally, the Governor directed TDEM to place the following resources on standby for activation if needed:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2): Type 3 Urban Search and Rescue Teams
• Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Severe Weather Packages

Texans are urged to stay informed by monitoring local forecasts and following guidance from emergency officials, make an emergency plan, and keep an emergency supply kit easily accessible. Texans can access severe weather safety tips at TexasReady.gov, check road conditions at DriveTexas.org, locate flood information at TexasFlood.org, and find general disaster preparedness information at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.