Governor Greg Abbott (R) held a press conference at the State Operations Center in Austin, issuing a stark warning to Texans as severe flooding continues to impact wide areas of the state. With lives already lost and more rain expected, the Governor stressed the importance of public safety and ongoing emergency response efforts.
“I had the opportunity yesterday to visit Camp Mystic to see firsthand what happened there,” Abbott said. “It was nothing short of horrific. We’re here in Austin today because there have been lives lost in this greater region. We are broadening the area that we’re focused on, but we are not reducing our focus in the Kerrville area.”
Abbott noted that the next 24 to 48 hours pose serious risks as weather systems bring the potential for more flash flooding, especially across the Big Country, Concho Valley, Central Texas, and Kerr County.
“If there’s any water on the road, the most important thing you can do is to protect your lives,” he said. “Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Flanked by top state emergency leaders, Abbott emphasized a coordinated state and federal response. Over 1,500 personnel and 925 vehicles and equipment are deployed, with more than 20 agencies engaged in active operations.
Governor Abbott thanked President Donald Trump (R) for promptly approving a Major Disaster Declaration and acknowledged U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s (R) visit to Kerr County, saying her engagement was key to “ensuring the federal government continues to provide the necessary resources.”
Texans are urged to stay alert, follow guidance from local officials, and monitor road condition. The Texas Division of Emergency Management and several state agencies continue to support swiftwater rescues, damage assessments, veterinary care for affected animals, and critical infrastructure recovery.
State officials also urged residents to self-report storm damage via the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT). These reports are essential for identifying the scope of impact and channeling resources where they are most needed.
Abbott closed with a continued pledge: “Texas continues our 24/7 operations to search for anybody who was affected by these deadly storms.”
