HOUSTON, Aug. 23 (Xinhua) -- Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Wednesday ordered the State Operations Center (SOC) to elevate its readiness level as Tropical Depression Harvey approaches.
Additionally, Abbott has made available any and all state resources to assist in preparation, rescue and recovery efforts, said a press release from the governor's office.
"The state's emergency personnel are well prepared for the potential impact from Tropical Depression Harvey, and stand ready to assist in the event of any severe weather emergencies," said Abbott in the release.
"As the State Operations Center increases its readiness levels, I also encourage Texans in the storm' s path to make their own emergency preparations, heed warnings from local officials, and avoid high water areas. I ask that all Texans keep those in the Gulf Coast region in their thoughts and prayers as they prepare for this severe weather event."
The SOC has increased from level IV (normal conditions) to level III (increased readiness) and will be further elevated to level II (escalated response conditions) starting Thursday.
The remnants of Tropical Storm Harvey has reformed into a tropical depression and is headed toward the Texas coast, the National Weather Service announced Wednesday.
According to the weather service, the storm could make landfall by Friday.
