Tropical Depression Nine Strengthens into Tropical Storm Harold, Expected to Hit South Texas Coast
The National Weather Service has announced that an area of low pressure over the central Gulf of Mexico has intensified into Tropical Depression Nine. With sustained winds of about 35 mph, the depression is projected to become Tropical Storm Harold once the winds exceed 39 mph. Landfall is expected on the south Texas coast near Baffin Bay on Tuesday morning.
As of Monday afternoon, the storm was situated approximately 400 miles east-southeast of Corpus Christi, with winds reaching 35 mph. However, the NWS assures that all the rain associated with the storm will remain south of the Dallas-Fort Worth area and Central Texas, primarily impacting the Rio Grande Valley.
Forecasters from the NWS have stated, “Rain bands and tropical storm force wind gusts are expected to reach the Middle Texas coastal waters this evening and the coastal region of the Middle Texas coast during the overnight hours tonight. Moderate coastal flooding is expected Tuesday over the Middle Texas coast along with a high risk of rip currents. Isolated tornadoes could occur within the rain bands moving across south Texas from early Tuesday morning into the afternoon hours.”
A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for several areas, including Aransas Islands, Bee, Calhoun Islands, Coastal Aransas, Coastal Calhoun, Coastal Kleberg, Coastal Nueces, Coastal Refugio, Coastal San Patricio, Inland Calhoun, Inland Kleberg, Inland Nueces, Inland Refugio, Inland San Patricio, Jim Wells, Kleberg Islands, Live Oak, and Nueces Islands.
Furthermore, the storm is expected to impact portions of northern Coahuila and northern Nuevo Leon in Mexico.
Residents in the storm’s path are advised to prepare for potential emergencies, such as power outages, excessive rainfall, dangerous flooding, wind damage, and the possibility of tornadoes.
For those seeking information on emergency preparedness in Texas, the following resources are available:
– Texas evacuation routes: txdot.gov/driver/weather/hurricane.html
– Creating emergency kits: texasready.gov
– State assistance in an emergency event: tdem.texas.gov/response/state-of-texas-emergency-assistance-registry
How does the projected intensification of Tropical Storm Harold into a Category 1 hurricane impact the preparations and response plans of local officials along the South Texas coast
He South Texas coast within the next 48 hours.
Tropical Depression Nine, now known as Tropical Storm Harold, is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region. The National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm warning for the affected areas, urging residents to take necessary precautions.
The storm is projected to intensify further as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico. Forecasters predict that Harold will strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane before making landfall. The exact timing and location of landfall are still uncertain, but current models suggest it will hit the South Texas coast.
Residents along the coast are advised to closely monitor the storm’s progress and stay updated with the latest weather bulletins. Preparations should be made, including securing loose items and stocking up on essential supplies. The potential for heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding and additional warnings may be issued as the storm approaches.
Local officials are also shifting into action, activating emergency response plans and ensuring that evacuation routes are ready if needed. They are urging residents to heed evacuation orders and take shelter in designated safe areas if required.
Boaters and beachgoers are advised to avoid the water and stay away from the shoreline due to dangerous rip currents and rough seas. It is crucial to prioritize safety during this time and adhere to any warnings or advisories from authorities.
Tropical Storm Harold marks the ninth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which has been forecasted to be more active than usual. As hurricane season continues, it’s essential for all residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and prepared for potential threats from tropical weather systems.
