Gov. Greg Abbott ordered elevated activation of the Texas State Operations Center in Austin.
A statement from Abbott's office on Monday said the governor also has approved the use of state resources staged for rapid deployment as needed to help local officials deal with the storm.
Abbott noted that in the wake of recent floods from heavy rains, "any additional rainfall will exacerbate already saturated grounds, which could quickly lead to dangerous flash flooding and extended river flooding."
The Texas SOC works with state and local jurisdictions to coordinate resources and provide help where it is needed.
The United States Coast Guard has already been conducting flights along the Texas coast to assess flood damage.
Forecasts are calling for heavy downpours of rain Tuesday and Wednesday in Central and North Texas.
State officials released the following weather safety tips for Texas residents:
- Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential documents, supplies and provisions; plan how all family members and pets will respond in case of evacuation.
- Consider any special needs for individuals with disabilities or the elderly.
- When severe storms threaten, the safest place to be is indoors. If you are outdoors, seek shelter in a home or large building.
- Avoid areas already flooded and avoid any fast-flowing water; keep in mind that flood dangers are even harder to recognize at night.
- Be extremely cautious of any water on roads or in creeks, streams, storm drains or other areas – never attempt to cross flowing streams or drive across flooded roadways – and always observe road barricades placed for your protection.
- Remember that dangerous waters can seem deceptively calm, and if you encounter flooding, move to higher ground.
- Monitor weather radios and news broadcasts for updated information on current and anticipated severe weather.
- Always heed warnings and instructions provided by local officials and emergency management personnel.
In Houston shoppers stocked up on water Monday. The shelves that once held bottled water are empty at a Kroger in Cypress. And the lines were long at Joe V's Smart Shop in Houston.
Along Highway 87 in Bolivar, voluntary evacuations were in order as the water got closer.
Texas City Independent School District has already canceled school and closed the district's offices in anticipation of severe weather on Tuesday.
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