Tropical Storm Watches Issued For Texas
Residents of Texas, Mexico, and nearby regions are on high alert as tropical storm watches are issued in anticipation of what could potentially become a tropical cyclone Alberto.
The Approach of Potential Tropical Cyclone One
The National Hurricane Center has identified a disturbance in the southwest Gulf of Mexico, currently known as Potential Tropical Cyclone One, with expectations of triggering heavy rain, coastal flooding, rip currents, and high surf across Texas, Louisiana, and Mexico in the coming days. As of now, the disturbance is centered approximately 380 miles southeast of La Pesca, Mexico, and is moving northwest at seven miles per hour. If this system does strengthen into a tropical storm, it would earn the first name on the list for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season: Alberto.
Tropical Storm Watches and Expected Impacts
Tropical storm watches have been issued for the Texas coast from Port O’Connor southward to the mouth of the Rio Grande, and for the northeastern coast of Mexico from the mouth of the Rio Grande to Boca de Catan. A tropical storm watch signifies potential for tropical storm conditions within the watch area within the next 48 hours.
The most widespread impact from this weather condition, irrespective of its eventual intensity, is expected to be heavy rainfall, particularly from Texas to Louisiana. Flash flooding is a possibility in regions like Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Houston, and San Antonio, with rainfall totals projected to range from 3 to 8 inches.
Timeline for the Heaviest Rainfall
- Tuesday-Tuesday night: Coastal Texas, including Houston, to southwest Louisiana.
- Wednesday-Wednesday night: Coastal Texas to central Texas, inclusive of Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Austin.
Other Expected Impacts
Alongside heavy rainfall, persistent east winds are likely to lead to high surf, dangerous rip currents, and coastal flooding, especially in Texas and Louisiana. This threat could persist for several days during the week, with low-lying areas potentially inundated by seawater at high tide.
Flood Threat in Mexico and Central America
This tropical system is partially the result of a broader area of low pressure across Southern Mexico and Central America. Such expansive swirls of low pressure can cause or influence tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, or eastern Pacific Ocean both early and late in the hurricane season. Together, these phenomena bring moisture from the eastern Pacific into Southern Mexico and Central America, leading to potential rainfall measured in multiple feet in regions like extreme southern Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and western Nicaragua. This could result in life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous terrains.
Regular updates on the dynamic weather outlook will be provided with emphasis on important shifts that could potentially affect inhabitants of the impacted areas.
Preparing for the Storm
In light of these impending weather conditions, it is crucial for people living in the affected areas to prepare for what’s approaching. Measures such as securing loose outdoor items, stocking up on necessary emergency supplies, and reviewing family emergency plans are a must.
Stay Informed and Safe
All residents are urged to stay weather-aware by keeping an eye on reliable weather updates, paying attention to warnings and advisories from local government and weather authorities, and planning accordingly. The need to safeguard lives and property during such severe weather events is paramount.
