By Jane Kathleen Gregorio
EBC Houston Bureau
HOUSTON, TX (AFP) — Tropical Depression Imelda has begun soaking the Texas coast on Tuesday, forcing residents and government officials to prepare for potential flooding and causing school cancellations in the area.
The National Weather Service National Hurricane Center released a Public Advisory Tuesday night stating that Tropical Depression Imelda is “moving farther inland” and that “heavy rains and life-threatening flash flooding will continue to spread inland over Southeast Texas during the next day or two.”
Several schools cancelled Wednesday classes due to expected impacts from the storm, including College of the Mainland, Galveston Independent School District, High Island ISD , Texas City ISD and Houston Community College campuses.
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced in a statement that Governor Abbott has placed numerous resources on standby across the state and elevated the State Operations Center to level 3 (Increased Readiness) as severe weather approaches the Gulf Coast of Texas.
“As severe weather approaches the Gulf Coast, the state of Texas is taking necessary precautions to ensure local officials have the resources they need to respond this event,” said Governor Abbott. “State assets have been positioned for quick deployment in the regions expected to be impacted by these storms and I encourage all Texans in the southeast coastal area to heed all warnings from local officials and pay close attention to weather reports as this system approaches.”
The Governor’s office also released some tips for residents as Tropical Depression Imelda hits the area.
Texans are encouraged to follow these safety tips:
- When severe storms threaten, the safest place to be is indoors.
- Avoid areas already flooded and avoid any fast-flowing water.
- 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, Turn Around Don’t Drown.
- Dangerous waters can seem deceptively calm, and if you encounter flooding, move to higher ground.
- Keep in mind that flood dangers are even harder to recognize at night.
- Stay informed by monitoring weather radios and news broadcasts for updated information on current and anticipated severe weather in your area.
(Eagle News Service)