Introduction to Tropical Weather
A tropical disturbance in the Gulf has the potential to bring heavy rainfall to the Houston area and other parts of Southeast Texas late Thursday through early Saturday, according to the National Weather Service office for the Houston and Galveston region. The National Weather Service is closely monitoring the situation and providing updates to help residents prepare for the potential severe weather.
Current Weather Conditions
A broad area of low pressure remained in the northern Gulf off the coast of Alabama, the weather service said Thursday morning. The disturbance has remained disorganized after passing over Florida earlier this week. Although the system is not expected to pass over the Houston area, it is likely to bring rain to the region.
Rainfall and Flooding Risks
There is a marginal risk of excessive rainfall Friday and Saturday along and east of Interstate 45, according to the weather service. The risk of excessive rainfall is higher in eastern Chambers County on Friday. Localized flooding is also possible, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe. National Weather Service meteorologist Haley Adams said, "Our rain chances aren’t going to be as high as we initially expected, but we still could get some of those outer rain showers."
System Development and Landfall
The system is expected to make landfall in Louisiana on Thursday and has a 30% chance of developing into a tropical depression. This marks a decrease from earlier predictions, which stated a 40% chance. The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring the system and providing updates on its development and potential impact.
Emergency Preparedness
In anticipation of the potentially severe weather, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott activated the state’s emergency resources Thursday. The activation includes agencies such as the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and the Public Utility Commission of Texas, among others. Gov. Abbott urged Texans to take all necessary precautions, including monitoring forecasts and road conditions and having an emergency plan to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.
Conclusion
The tropical disturbance in the Gulf has the potential to bring heavy rainfall and flooding to the Houston area and other parts of Southeast Texas. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe. By monitoring forecasts and having an emergency plan in place, Texans can protect themselves and their communities from the potential impacts of the severe weather. The National Weather Service and state agencies are working together to provide updates and support to those affected by the weather.
