A potential tropical storm is threatening Texas with heavy rain and dangerous flooding, as the first named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, Tropical Storm Alberto, forms in the Gulf of Mexico.
According to multiple sources,
the system is expected to bring five to ten inches of rain and winds up to 40 mph. In Galveston Bay, Texas, a storm surge might reach 2 to 4 feet.
tropical storm warnings have been issued for parts of the Texas coast from Port O'Connor to the mouth of the Rio Grande.
The tropical system is forecast to make landfall in Mexico just south of Texas and could also bring flooding rain to parts of Mexico and Central America.
Flood watches have been issued for several counties in Texas, including Harris, Waller, Washington, Colorado, Chambers, Wharton, Fort Bend, Jackson Matagorda and Brazoria.
gusty winds are also expected along the coast of southeastern Texas and rough seas with high rip currents.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) advises people to be prepared for heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Houston Mayor John Whitmire urged residents to look out for their neighbors, families, and not drive in high water.
the Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1 to November 30.