A Tropical Rainstorm Threatens the Gulf Coast Yet Again This Week

A tropical storm warning is now in effect in a zone from Port Bolivar, Texas, to the Vermilion and Cameron Parish Line in Louisiana. Here is a look at the latest tropical weather maker to spin up in the Atlantic.

Could a New Tropical Storm be Imminent?

A tropical rainstorm is forecast to dump heavy rain across parts of the Gulf Coast early this week, bringing along the threat of flash flooding as it moves ashore. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) also said that the rainstorm may briefly evolve into a named tropical storm before making landfall on Tuesday.

The approaching storm is forecast to unleash several waves of heavy rain and thunderstorms in a stretch from the upper Texas coast to southwestern Louisiana through Wednesday. The next name up on the list of predetermined designations is Edouard.

The Gulf Coast has been the most frequent target of tropical weather this year. Tropical Storm Arthur and Tropical Storm Bertha both roared ashore into this region in July.

The surge of tropical moisture will spread to the west across southern Louisiana on Monday. The latest forecast models indicate that the gusty storms will hit the upper Texas coast late Monday before moving farther inland on Tuesday.

Widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are in the forecast for the coastline of Louisiana and into eastern Texas. Localized totals of 2 to 8 inches are on tap for the area surrounding Houston.

The brief bursts of heavy rain anticipated with this system could quickly overwhelm storm drains and trigger flooding issues. Motorists need to be aware of the chance of reduced visibility and flooded roadways.

This impending tropical rain event will also generate locally gusty winds. The highest wind gusts are expected for the immediate coastal areas. The northern Gulf should also prepare for rough surf conditions capable of creating hazards for small watercraft.

While the winds and storm surge associated with this system will not be as dangerous as what is expected with a hurricane, the impacts will be severe enough to translate to power outages and minor coastal flooding.

Looking Ahead to the Rest of the Week

Forecasters are predicting that the rainstorm will quickly lose strength as it moves farther inland over the southeastern corner of Texas. However, another influx of tropical moisture is expected to surge into the Gulf in the days ahead. This abundance of moisture in the atmosphere will continue to provide fuel for more rain showers and thunderstorms.

The major Gulf Coast cities of Houston, New Orleans, Mobile, and Tampa should also expect a soggy stretch of days. In addition, meteorologists are watching another zone in the eastern Gulf that could take on tropical characteristics by the end of the week. Even in the absence of defined development, the area of low pressure will translate to more rain and storms from the Gulf Coast to the Bahamas.

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