A potential tropical cyclone is developing in the Gulf of Mexico with chances of impacting some cities in Texas, including Houston.
The National Hurricane Center reported that the storm, expected to become a Tropical Storm, could strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane by Wednesday. Forecasters have predicted that its path may bring it near the Texas and Louisiana coastlines. Currently, there is not a clear trajectory traced, but, according to the Houston Chronicle, a Texas landfall near Galveston and Houston is possible.
Currently, the system lacks a defined center, but once formed, it will officially be named Francine. According to forecasts, the storm may follow a northeastern trajectory, staying offshore but near the Texas coastline and affecting areas from the Rio Grande Valley to Houston. Models indicate the potential for landfall in Louisiana by late Wednesday, but there is still uncertainty in the exact path.
Houston and the Gulf Coast are preparing for possible impacts, including high winds, localized flooding, and significant rainfall. The National Weather Service expects increased rain chances beginning Tuesday, especially for coastal areas like Galveston. Between Tuesday and Thursday, heavy rains may bring several inches of precipitation, with the potential for higher totals along the coast.
Before Texas will face rainfall, the next few days a cold front brought cooler and more pleasant weather, with lows dipping into the upper 60s and daytime highs reaching the mid-80s. This weather is expected to last through Monday. By Monday evening, clouds will start to move in as the tropical system nears.
Residents across Southeast Texas are urged to monitor the storm closely, as conditions may shift. Authorities recommend preparations for severe weather, particularly along the coast, where the storm’s impacts are expected to be strongest. Meanwhile, be sure to prepare for several inches of rain in the Houston area between Tuesday and Thursday.
