Houston, TX – Tropical Storm Beryl is projected to intensify into a hurricane as it heads towards the Texas coast, with potential landfall in Matagorda County early Monday. Harris County, now under a disaster declaration, prepares for significant impacts.
Governor Greg Abbott has urged residents to complete emergency plans and heed evacuation orders. The National Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane Warning from Baffin Bay to Sargent, Texas. Residents should brace for tropical twisters in the afternoon and prepare to hunker down on Monday. Strong rip currents and hazardous marine conditions are anticipated along the Gulf Coast.
Expected Impacts
- Winds and Rainfall: Beryl’s path, now likely targeting Matagorda County, could bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to the heavily populated I-45 corridor. Travel disruptions due to street flooding and gusty winds are expected Monday morning.
- Power Outages: Widespread power outages are likely as Beryl moves through Southeast Texas.
- Forecast Uncertainty: The average forecast error for the landfall point is about 50 miles, and the intensity error is one hurricane category. Residents should stay informed as the situation develops.
Harris County Specifics
In Harris County, officials emphasize the importance of completing preparations and following local advisories. The area is at risk of experiencing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges, particularly in coastal and low-lying regions. Increased rip currents and hazardous marine conditions will pose additional dangers through the weekend and into next week.
Safety Measures
Residents should secure their homes, gather emergency supplies, and have an evacuation plan in place. Avoid flooded roads and adhere to local officials’ guidance to ensure safety during the storm.
Dr. Michael Brennan, Director of the National Hurricane Center, delivered updates on Tropical Storm Beryl. With the storm forecasted to reach hurricane status, residents in the path of the storm need to stay up to date on future forecasts. Heavy rain and wind is expected.
Tropical Storm Beryl Summary: As of 1:00 AM CDT, Sunday, July 7, 2024, Tropical Storm Beryl is located about 275 miles southeast of Corpus Christi, Texas, with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph. It is moving northwest at 13 mph and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane before making landfall on the Texas coast Monday morning. Hurricane, Tropical Storm, and Storm Surge Warnings are in effect for parts of the Texas coast, with life-threatening conditions expected. Residents should prepare for heavy rainfall (5-10 inches, up to 15 inches in some areas), potential flooding, dangerous surf, and possible tornadoes. Follow local evacuation and safety instructions. (RELEASED STATEMENT).
For more detailed information, visit the National Hurricane Center and subscribe and follow us for updates.
Stay safe, Houston.
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