Abbott declares state disaster for El Paso County after flooding

Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a state disaster declaration for El Paso County on Thursday following heavy rainfall and flooding in the area, according to KVIA.

Abbott said the declaration was meant to "ensure the full resources of the State of Texas are available to support local response and recovery." The governor directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to deploy state emergency response resources to assist recovery efforts.

Residents experiencing storm damage are asked to report it through the iSTAT survey online once it is safe to do so, allowing officials to assess needs and eligibility for federal assistance. "Texans must never drive through flooded roads and should follow guidance from local officials," Abbott said.

El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego had already signed a local disaster declaration Tuesday in response to the severe weather. A neighborhood in Horizon City experienced significant flooding that prompted families to evacuate. The county distributed a flyer with flood assistance resources for residents.

Morerain is expected to fall in the El Paso area Thursday evening, according to KVIA. Abbott was in El Paso on Thursday for a campaign event as he runs for reelection against Democrat Gina Hinojosa.