FORT WORTH, Texas — North Texas could see several inches of rain this week, with the potential for as much as 20 inches if a cold front stalls, prompting state and local officials to prepare for widespread flooding and flash flooding.
Gov. Greg Abbott said the severe weather threat could extend from the Red River through North Texas and into Central Texas starting Wednesday.
Abbott said forecasters cannot determine whether the cold front will stall, but a stalled system could produce 10 to 20 inches of rain in some areas.
The state has deployed about 1,900 emergency responders and more than 1,500 pieces of equipment, including high-water vehicles, search-and-rescue boats and helicopters. The Texas National Guard also plans to activate more than 100 personnel, with another 400 on standby.
Fort Worth officials said firefighters have checked rescue equipment, including ropes, boats and other watercraft. The city has two fire stations that specialize in swift-water rescues, with the stations positioned at opposite ends of the city to cover different areas.
Fort Worth Fire Department spokesperson Craig Trojacek said some firefighters have also deployed outside the city as part of the state’s response.
Arlington firefighters said they routinely inspect their water-rescue equipment and remain prepared for emergencies throughout the year.
Arlington Fire Department spokesperson Juan Mata warned that dry ground could increase runoff because the soil may not absorb water quickly. He also said widespread pavement across the Dallas-Fort Worth area could contribute to flash flooding.
Fire officials urged residents to avoid driving through flooded roads and to take changing conditions seriously. They said about six inches of moving water can cause a vehicle to lose control, while about a foot of water can cause a vehicle to float.
Trojacek said emergency crews will respond to rescues but also need to consider the safety of firefighters and their families.
The state’s Emergency Operations Center will begin 24-hour operations Wednesday as officials monitor the developing weather threat.