Potential Tropical Storm Developing in the Gulf of Mexico
City of Concern: Corpus Christi
As residents of Corpus Christi keep an eye on the bay, a potential tropical storm is forming in the Gulf of Mexico, with forecasters predicting it could reach a low-end Category 1 hurricane status by Wednesday. Following weeks of quiet weather, the National Hurricane Center has reported a significant chance for tropical storm development, now set at 90% within the next 48 hours. This information was last updated in a briefing on Sunday evening.
Tropical Storm Watch Issued
A tropical storm watch is currently in effect for the southern Texas region, specifically from Port Mansfield down to the Rio Grande River. This watch indicates that tropical storm winds could begin affecting the area as early as Tuesday evening. The Mexican coastline southward to Barra del Tordo is also under this watch, making residents in these areas increasingly alert to the impending weather changes.
Current Location of the System
As of Sunday night, the center of this new system was approximately 320 miles south-southeast of the mouth of the Rio Grande and about 550 miles south of Cameron, Louisiana. The system features sustained winds estimated at around 50 mph and is currently moving at a sluggish pace of just 5 mph in a north-northwest direction.
Anticipated Development
Forecasters expect this system to evolve into a tropical storm by Monday, and tropical storm conditions are likely to hit parts of the northeastern coast of Mexico and the southern tip of Texas. If it develops as expected, this storm would become the sixth named storm of the 2024 hurricane season and would be referred to as Francine.
Flooding Concerns Rise
With the storm’s anticipated trajectory, hurricane, storm surge, and tropical storm watches are expected along the upper Texas and Louisiana coasts starting Monday. In a statement, meteorologist Donald Jones emphasized the potential for heavy rainfall, stating that the storm could bring between 4 to 8 inches of rain, with some areas possibly receiving up to 12 inches along the Texas and Louisiana coasts through Thursday. This creates a concerning risk for flash floods, especially in southwestern Louisiana.
Forecast Track and Timing
The system is forecast to pick up speed and begin moving more quickly to the northeast by late Tuesday as it interacts with a cold front coming ashore. The current predictions suggest the storm will be just offshore along the Texas coast and may make landfall either on the upper Texas coast or southwestern Louisiana on Wednesday.
Keeping a Close Eye
Residents are urged to remain vigilant as the storm approaches. Reports indicate that water temperatures in the Gulf are currently warmer than normal, which can help in the development of hurricanes. While strengthening is expected once the system forms a clear center, the hurricane center also noted that increasing wind shear and slightly drier air could limit further intensification.
Conclusion
As the situation continues to develop, residents of southwestern Louisiana and southeast Texas should prepare for possible impacts from this tropical system. The primary concern at this time remains flooding, particularly in areas south of Interstate 10. With the track of the storm shifting slightly eastward, the upcoming days will be critical for monitoring any changes and ensuring the safety of local communities.
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
