Abbott ups Texas' readiness ahead of Valentine’s Day storm threat

Heavy rain, damaging winds in the forecast for Valentine's Day

Southeast Texas is now under a 2/5 Likely risk for severe storms Saturday evening. Look out for damaging wind gusts, as well as the threat for hail and possible tornadoes.

HOUSTON - Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has increased the state’s readiness ahead of a severe weather threat on Valentine’s Day.

The setup:

A powerful area of low-pressure moving across the southern U.S. this weekend will be the catalyst behind periods of heavy rain and strong storms that will keep things soggy for much of the Gulf Coast region.

For Texas, Saturday will be the day of the greatest impact. The eastern two-thirds of the state are in a Level 1 out of 5 risk of severe weather, but areas from Lufkin to Houston are in a Level 2 out of 5 risk.

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The most likely threat with any severe storms that develop will be damaging winds. However, some tornadoes and hail are also possible.

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What they're saying:

Abbott said Friday that he has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate response resources ahead of the storms.

"The State of Texas is prepared to respond to severe storms anticipated this weekend," Abbott said. "I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate all necessary resources to assist Texas communities ahead of potential severe weather. Texans are urged to surveil road conditions before traveling, remain weather-aware, and have a plan in place in case of emergency."

Abbott said officials are also monitoring the potential for increased wildfire risk across parts of the state as the storm system blows through.

What you can do:

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