Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Texas and Mexico Coasts
A large disturbance, currently developing over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico, is predicted to escalate into a tropical storm before moving into Mexico prompting the issue of tropical storm warnings for parts of the Texas and Mexico coasts. The impending storm will bring with it high surf, flooding rains, coastal flooding, and strong winds, significantly influencing the western Gulf Coast of the U.S., particularly Texas. These conditions will also occur in parts of Mexico and Central America.
Potential Cyclone One
Dubbed the Potential Tropical Cyclone One by the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the system is presently positioned over 400 miles to the southeast of Brownsville, Texas, and is tracking northwards. If it escalates into a tropical storm, it will bear the name Alberto. The development of the storm into a tropical cyclone is anticipated to occur on late Tuesday or early Wednesday.
Despite gaining some strength before making landfall in eastern Mexico on Wednesday evening, the main impacts will be perceptible much ahead and will spread far to the north across Texas.
Tropical Storm Alerts
Tropical storm warnings have been issued from Port O’Connor in Texas to the mouth of the Rio Grande, extending from there into northeast Mexico. These warnings signify that tropical storm conditions (winds exceeding 39 mph) are expected within 36 hours, suggesting storm repercussions by Wednesday.
Expected Impacts
The system’s most widespread effect, regardless of how well organized it becomes, is expected to be heavy rainfall in Texas and northeast Mexico. Rainfall totals in South Texas and northeast Mexico are expected to range from 5 to 10 inches, with localized areas possibly exceeding these figures.
Flash floods are a potential threat for the coastal regions and South Texas, including cities like Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Houston, and San Antonio. Flooding and mudslides are also anticipated across eastern Mexico.
Timeline of Heavy Rainfall in Texas
- Through Tuesday night: Coastal Texas, including Houston, extending to southwest Louisiana.
- Wednesday to Wednesday night: Coastal Texas to south-central Texas, including Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Austin.
- Thursday: South Texas extending westward along the Rio Grande to the Big Bend region.
In addition to flooding, storm surge, rip currents, and high surf are also anticipated. Storm surge could peak at 2 to 4 feet around part of the upper Texas coast, including Galveston Bay, especially if the peak surge coincides with high tide. Beachgoers are cautioned to opt out of oceanic activities due to the rip current danger.
Citizens are advised to stay updated on the situation, exercising caution and taking necessary precautions to stay safe amidst these weather conditions.
