Texas Gov. Abbott activates emergency response system over potential tropical storm

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources amid a tropical storm threat in the Gulf of Mexico.

The order increases the readiness level to 24-hour Level II, local news reported.

The elevated readiness level activates resources or puts them on standby. Those resources include swiftwater rescue boats, public works strike teams, and helicopters with hoist capabilities.

"Texas stands ready to provide all available resources needed to support Texans as a severe storm system begins to move along the Gulf Coast that will bring potential flash flooding threats and heavy rain," Abbott said Sunday in announcing the activation. 

Abbott urged Texans "to take the necessary precautions for potential tropical weather, including remaining weather aware, monitoring road conditions, and having an emergency plan to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones."