October 29, 2009 AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry has directed the activation of state search and rescue capabilities, including Texas Military Forces and Texas Task Force 1 (TTF-1) personnel and resources due to heavy rains and potential flooding threatening Texas communities.

“Storms stretching across the state have created dangerous flash flood conditions that can form quickly, and I urge Texans in communities impacted by these storms to be cautious and pay attention to changing weather conditions,” Gov. Perry said. “As rainfall continues, the state is taking precautionary measures in the event assistance is needed, and I appreciate the brave men and women who are always ready to respond to an event that places Texans in harm’s way.

”Heavy rains over the last few days have saturated many areas and left rivers at or above flood stage. The National Weather Service predicts rainfall to continue during the next 48 hours, with some areas receiving as much as nine additional inches of rain. The greatest threat of flooding will occur today through Saturday morning, in areas east of Interstate 45 and south of Interstate 30. The greatest chance of severe storms, including damaging winds and hail, will occur east of Interstate 35 today and tonight.

The following state resources will be prepositioned this afternoon:

• 72 Texas Military Forces personnel (12 each to Austin, Beaumont, Houston, Longview, Lufkin and San Antonio)
• 20 Texas Military Forces high profile vehicles (five each) to Longview, Lufkin, Beaumont and Houston
• 2 Texas Military Forces UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and 2 TTF-1 search and rescue personnel in Austin
• 2 Texas Military Forces UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and 2 TTF-1 search and rescue personnel in San Antonio
• 6 TTF-1 swift water rescue teams on standby

The State Operations Center is fully activated and working with the National Weather Service to closely monitor this severe weather event.