AUSTIN, Texas — President Joe Biden has issued a Federal Emergency Declaration for Texas in response to the severe winter weather throughout the state.

Gov. Abbott submitted a request for this declaration on Saturday to help the storm response efforts.

The Federal Emergency Declaration authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide emergency protective measures, sheltering, and direct federal assistance for all 254 Texas counties.

“I thank President Biden for quickly issuing a Federal Emergency Declaration for Texas as we continue to respond to severe winter weather conditions throughout the state,” said Gov. Abbott. “This disaster declaration provides Texas with additional resources and assistance that will help our communities respond to this winter weather."