WHARTON — Wharton County is among 59 Texas counties included in a disaster declaration issued Tuesday by Governor Greg Abbott following severe storms, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding that began July 13.
The declaration comes as parts of Texas continue dealing with flooding and the threat of additional heavy rainfall. State officials say the proclamation allows Texas to mobilize additional resources to help local communities respond to the disaster and begin recovery efforts.
Wharton County joins several neighboring counties included in the declaration, including Austin, Brazoria, Colorado, Fort Bend, Jackson, Lavaca, Matagorda, and Victoria.
As part of the state’s response, multiple agencies have been activated or placed on standby to assist impacted areas. Those resources include personnel and equipment from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas National Guard, Texas Department of State Health Services, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM). These agencies can provide assistance ranging from road and bridge support to search and rescue, medical response, damage assessments, and emergency logistics.
The governor’s proclamation also authorizes the use of all available state resources and allows certain state laws and regulations to be temporarily suspended when necessary to speed emergency response and recovery efforts.
“The protection of Texans is my top priority,” Abbott said in a statement. He encouraged residents in affected areas to closely monitor local weather forecasts, avoid driving through flooded roadways, and keep emergency supplies readily available as additional rainfall remains possible.
State officials said the Texas State Emergency Operations Center remains at an elevated response level, coordinating with local governments and emergency responders across affected areas.
Additional counties may be added to the disaster declaration if conditions warrant.
Residents are encouraged to follow updates from local emergency management officials and the National Weather Service as recovery efforts continue.