Texas Forest Country Should Prepare for Heavy Rainfall
As summer heats up, the weather in Texas Forest Country is becoming more unpredictable. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Tropical Storm Warning, affecting both inland and coastal regions. The warning follows the formation of a tropical system in the Bay of Campeche, which is expected to intensify and bring significant weather impacts to our area.
Tropical Storm Details
Currently located about 410 miles southeast of Brownsville, TX, the tropical system is moving north at a speed of 7 mph. With wind speeds reaching 40 mph, the storm is projected to strengthen further and make its way toward the central Mexican Gulf coast. This development has prompted the NWS to issue Tropical Storm Warnings for coastal areas including Kenedy, Willacy, and Cameron counties.
Governor’s Response and State Preparedness
In response to the tropical weather threat, Governor Greg Abbott has activated state emergency response resources.
“Texas stands ready to deploy all resources and assistance needed to help support communities in Southeast Texas that are in the path of a potentially devastating tropical storm,” said Governor Abbott.
He urged Texans to remain weather aware and heed the guidance of local officials to ensure safety.
To support the tropical weather response operations, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has activated the following resources:
- Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2: Urban Search & Rescue Teams and Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads
- Texas National Guard: Ground Transportation Platoons with high profile vehicles and helicopters with hoist capability
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Warden search and rescue boat teams
- Texas Department of Public Safety: Tactical Marine Unit boats, rescue swimmers, and search and rescue aircraft
- Texas Department of Transportation: High profile vehicles and road condition monitoring personnel
- Texas Emergency Medical Task Force: Severe Weather Packages
Additional resources have been readied by TDEM for mobilization as needed, including incident management teams, saw crews, and monitoring by various state commissions.
Potential Impacts on Texas Forest Country
Residents of Texas Forest Country should prepare for heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and gusty winds. Rainfall totals are expected to range from 4 to 8 inches, with some areas seeing up to 10 inches or more. This heavy rain could lead to significant flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and near rivers.
Coastal areas will face additional challenges, including storm surges up to 3 feet, high surf, and dangerous rip currents. The combination of these conditions poses a threat not only to property but also to personal safety, especially for those planning beach trips.
Flood Warnings and River Conditions
In addition to the tropical storm warning, multiple flood warnings are in effect for rivers in the region:
- Sabine River Near Deweyville: Minor flooding continues with impacts on roads and low-lying areas.
- Angelina River Near Lufkin: Minor flooding expected, with river stages currently above flood levels.
- Neches River Near Alto: Minor flooding occurring, with river levels expected to fall below flood stage by early Friday.
- Trinity River at Riverside: Moderate flooding impacting homes and roads, with levels expected to decrease gradually.
These flood warnings highlight the need for vigilance and preparedness, particularly for those living near these waterways.
Precautionary Measures
Residents are urged to complete any necessary preparations to protect life and property. This includes securing outdoor items, preparing for potential evacuations, and having an emergency plan in place. With the possibility of isolated tornadoes, it is crucial to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and to know the safest places to shelter.
For those planning trips to the coast, be aware of the hazardous conditions and consider postponing travel until the storm passes. Coastal flooding, high surf, and strong winds make beach activities extremely dangerous during this period.
Stay updated with the latest weather information through reliable sources such as NOAA Weather Radio and local news outlets. For detailed updates and safety tips, visit Weather.gov.
Governor Abbott’s Safety Tips
With hurricane season underway, Governor Abbott reminded Texans to follow these flood preparedness and safety tips:
- Know the types of flood risk in your area.
- Sign up for your community’s warning system.
- Build an emergency supply kit. For more information, visit Texas Ready.
- Keep important documents in a waterproof container and create password-protected digital copies.
- Protect your property by moving valuables to higher levels, decluttering drains and gutters, and considering a sump pump with a battery.
- Be extremely cautious of any water on roads or in creeks, streams, storm drains, or other areas. Never attempt to cross flowing streams or drive across flooded roadways and always observe road barricades. Remember, turn around, don’t drown.
Texans are urged to implement proactive measures to prepare for incoming weather, including making an emergency plan, following instructions from emergency officials, and monitoring local forecast information. For more preparedness tips, visit TDEM and Texas Ready.
Stay Safe and Informed
The unpredictability of tropical weather underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared. By taking proactive measures and heeding official warnings, we can protect ourselves and our communities from the potential impacts of this tropical storm.
Stay safe, Texas Forest Country, and keep an eye on the skies as we navigate this weather event together. Don’t forget to visit our Hurricane Preparedness page HERE
