WESLACO – Gov. Greg Abbott is activating the entire Texas National Guard for search and rescue efforts following Hurricane Harvey. 

The order brings a total deployment to roughly 12,000 soldiers. 

Abbott said early Monday morning it's "imperative we do everything possible" to protect lives. 

About 3,000 guard members were mobilized along the Texas coast. The governor said they will now be activating others who are physically able and not currently deployed elsewhere.