Tropical Storm Alberto Brings Rain, Wind, and Potential Flooding to Texas and Mexico

Tropical Storm Alberto, the first named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, is currently moving inland over Mexico, bringing rain, wind, and the potential for flooding to parts of Texas. This storm has already caused three deaths in Mexico and is forecasted to bring as much as 20 inches of rain to some areas, potentially relieving drought conditions in the region.

The National Hurricane Center's forecast indicates that Tropical Storm Alberto will continue west across Mexico, where it made landfall early Thursday morning. As of late Thursday morning, the storm was about 25 miles west of Tampico, Mexico, and 255 miles south of Brownsville, Texas. The storm is moving at a rate of about 13 miles per hour, with maximum sustained winds of 45 miles per hour. It is expected to continue inland as the day progresses and dissipate sometime Thursday or overnight.

Forecasted Rain and Flooding

Tropical Storm Alberto is projected to bring rain across Mexico and parts of Texas, with the potential for flooding in certain areas. Much of the Veracruz and Oaxaca regions in Mexico may see up to four inches of rainfall, while areas near Tamaulipas could experience between 12 and 16 inches of rain. In the United States, the worst rain is expected near Laredo, Texas, with the border city forecasted to receive up to four inches of rain. Other parts of Texas, including areas near Corpus Christi and San Antonio, may see up to two inches of rainfall.

Parts of Texas, including the border and southeastern coast, have been warned of potential storm surge and flash flooding. The Roswell area faces at least a 15% risk of flash flooding, while areas along the eastern coast are bracing for storm surge of at least a foot. The coastal area of Galveston Bay is at an even higher risk, with the National Hurricane Center predicting a storm surge of between two and four feet.

Precautionary Measures and Impact on Texas

Fifty-one Texas counties are under a disaster declaration as Tropical Storm Alberto moves across Mexico. Wind and flooding conditions are expected to improve throughout the day, especially in Galveston and Corpus Christi. Parts of the state are prepared for storm surge and flooding, with a 5% to 15% risk of flash flooding in various areas. Authorities have been monitoring the situation closely to ensure the safety of residents.