Tropical Storm Harold Strengthening as It Approaches South Texas
South Texas is bracing for heavy rain, flooding, powerful winds, and dangerous rip currents as Tropical Storm Harold strengthens in the Gulf of Mexico and moves towards the region. The storm, which originally formed as a tropical depression, now has maximum sustained winds of 45 mph and is expected to make landfall south of Corpus Christi by midday.
According to the National Hurricane Center, the system is expected to bring 3 to 5 inches of rain, with some areas potentially receiving up to 7 inches in South Texas on Tuesday and Wednesday. In Mexico, 4 to 6 inches of rain is expected. The storm surge is also a concern, with water levels expected to rise 1 to 3 feet along the mouth of the Rio Grande to Sargent, Baffin Bay, Corpus Christi, and Matagorda Bay.
To prepare for the storm, South Beach and North Beach were closed for driving and camping, and the Texas National Guard and swift water rescue boat squads have been deployed. Texas Governor Greg Abbott urged residents to remain weather-aware and follow the guidance of state and local officials.
In Corpus Christi, officials advised residents to drive slower than usual, turn on their headlights, and be aware of possible flooding in low-lying areas. Crews have been working to prepare canals and drainage infrastructure for the heavy rainfall. The city of Port Aransas has declared a local state disaster in anticipation of severe damage and flooding.
Naval Air Station Kingsville ordered an evacuation for residents in the RV Park on the installation, while voluntary evacuations were called in Riviera, Baffin Bay, and Loyola Beach. AEP Texas, the power provider for South Texas, is also preparing for possible power outages.
The arrival of Tropical Storm Harold comes at a time when South Texas is experiencing one of its hottest and driest summers on record. While the rainfall from the storm could help alleviate some drought conditions, areas of extreme and exceptional drought in Central Texas might miss out on the much-needed rain.
In addition to Tropical Storm Harold, two other tropical storms are forming in the Atlantic Basin. Tropical Storm Franklin is set to impact Hispaniola by mid-week, while another storm is gaining strength. With sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico at record highs, experts warn that the Atlantic hurricane season is ramping up.