HOUSTON, Texas – The Gulf Coast of Texas is bracing for the impact of the first tropical storm of the hurricane season, Tropical Storm Alberto, which formed over the western Gulf of Mexico, officials announced early Wednesday morning.
The storm, expected to bring heavy rains, coastal flooding, and gusty winds, poses a significant threat to the coasts of Texas and northeastern Mexico. With tropical storm warnings in effect along the Texas coast from the San Luis Pass to the mouth of the Rio Grande, authorities are preparing for potentially severe flooding. In Corpus Christi alone, as much as 10 to 15 inches of rain are forecasted.
As the storm made its way inland, reports of coastal flooding had already been received, prompting the Texas state government to mobilize a large-scale emergency response. The National Hurricane Center highlighted the widespread impacts expected, warning of rainfall, coastal flooding, and strong winds extending far beyond the storm’s center.
In the midst of the storm preparations, concerns were also raised for the likelihood of life-threatening mudslides in the higher areas of northern Mexico, particularly around Monterrey and Ciudad Victoria. Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered the activation of the Texas State Emergency Operations Center to level 2 readiness, ensuring 24-hour operations to assist communities potentially affected by the impending severe weather.
Emergency response teams, including personnel from the Texas A&M Forest Service and the Texas National Guard, were deployed to provide support and aid in the event of emergencies. Residents in the affected areas were advised to have essential supplies for a minimum of five to seven days, as the storm warnings coincided with a broader heatwave affecting over 71 million people under advisories or warnings.
The approaching Tropical Storm Alberto serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of hurricane season and the importance of preparedness and readiness in the face of natural disasters. Officials continue to monitor the storm’s progress closely, urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety and minimize risks associated with the impending severe weather conditions.