Gov. Perry Activates Resources in Anticipation of Tropical Storm Humberto

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today activated state resources including search and rescue teams as Tropical Storm Humberto is projected to make landfall on the Texas coastline tonight.  The rapidly developing storm became a tropical depression this morning and strengthened to a tropical storm by mid-day today.  The state will provide necessary assistance as requested by local officials. 
 
“It is imperative that Texans are mindful of severe weather events that may threaten their communities.  Some areas of our state remain saturated by summer floods and many communities in this storm’s projected path are at high risk of dangerous flash flooding” Perry said. “We will work with local officials to provide the state resources necessary to ensure the safety of all Texas residents as this storm moves over the state.”

According to the National Weather Service Tropical Storm Humberto is expected to produce heavy rainfall along the northern coast of Texas and southwestern coast of Louisiana.
 
In anticipation of this storm Perry activated 50 high profile vehicles and 200 Texas Military Forces (TMF) soldiers.  To assist with potential search and rescue operations the governor activated six TMF Blackhawk helicopters and two Texas Task Force 1 swift water rescue teams. 

Additional search and rescue capabilities include 60 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department boats and 120 personnel; five General Land Office boats and crew; and the Texas Forest Service Lonestar Incident Management Team to provide logistical support.  Perry also requested and received approval for additional aviation assets if needed from the U.S. Coast Guard.  All state resources are ready for rapid deployment.  Voluntary organizations are also prepared to provide mass care support for residents if needed. 
 
“I urge all Texans to heed the warnings of their local leaders and take all possible precautions to stay out of dangerous situations as this severe weather continues” Perry said.