The Texas coast is bracing for the impact of Hurricane Beryl, a tropical storm that has recently intensified and is expected to regain hurricane strength before making landfall. As of today, Beryl is situated approximately 200 miles southeast of Corpus Christi and 200 miles south-southeast of Matagorda, moving northwestward at about 10 miles per hour.
New Data indicates that Beryl’s maximum sustained winds have increased to around 65 miles per hour. Satellite imagery and radar data reveal that the storm is becoming better organized, with the formation of a partial eyewall, a key indicator of strengthening. Meteorologists predict that Beryl will regain hurricane status before reaching the Texas coast late Sunday night or early Monday morning.
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The current trajectory suggests that Beryl will continue its northwestward movement, turning northward as it approaches the Texas coast. Landfall is anticipated somewhere along the middle Texas coast, between Corpus Christi and Matagorda Bay. Residents in these areas should prepare for rapidly deteriorating conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and significant storm surge.
A storm surge warning is in effect for much of the Texas coastline, from the north entrance of the South Padre Island National Seashore to Sabine Pass, which marks the border between Texas and Louisiana. Forecasters warn of life-threatening inundation, with water levels expected to rise 4 to 6 feet above ground level in some areas. Particularly at risk are regions like Port O’Connor, Matagorda Bay, and San Luis Pass.
Hurricane warnings are in effect from Baffin Bay to San Luis Pass, including major cities such as Corpus Christi and Victoria. Tropical storm warnings extend further, encompassing Houston, Galveston, Beaumont, Port Arthur, and areas along the I-10 corridor to the west of Houston. The strongest winds are expected along the immediate coast within the hurricane warning area, potentially causing damage to trees, power outages, and structural damage.
Beryl is forecast to bring widespread heavy rainfall across much of eastern Texas, with amounts ranging from 5 to 10 inches and localized areas potentially receiving up to 15 inches. This could lead to significant flooding, particularly along and east of the I-45 corridor, affecting cities like Houston, Galveston, and extending into the Arklatex region. Flash flood watches are in effect, and residents in flood-prone areas should be prepared for swift water rise and possible evacuation.
The risk of tornadoes will be highest in southeastern Texas from late Sunday afternoon into early Monday morning. Cities like Beaumont, Cameron Parish in Louisiana, Houston, and Galveston could experience tornadoes embedded within the outer rainbands of Beryl.
The approach of Beryl is also generating dangerous rip currents and rough surf along the Gulf Coast. High-risk areas include the Florida Panhandle and coastal regions of Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
Residents in the path of Hurricane Beryl are urged to complete their storm preparations by late Sunday afternoon. This includes securing property, gathering essential supplies, and making plans to shelter in place or evacuate if necessary.
Local authorities emphasize the importance of having several days’ worth of food, water, medicine, and other essential supplies on hand. Power outages are likely, so residents should ensure they have batteries and other necessary items to endure the storm and its aftermath.
Esra Sahin