Sunday morning update: A surge of tropical moisture around a tropical wave now in the Gulf will bring several rounds of rain starting today and increasing through Monday. The National Hurricane Center now gives this wave a 20 percent or low chance of developing into a tropical depression or storm over the weekend. But, despite the disorganization, this will bring many heavy effects to the region.
Regardless of development, the wave will bring rough seas and a lot of tropical moisture into Texas Sunday through Tuesday. Meteorologist Collin Myers says even though it might not be a named storm, it’ll look, smell, and feel like one at the beach.
We are looking at three to four days with the potential for heavy tropical downpours that could flood streets. The most intense rains look to fall Sunday night through Monday, with 3-5″ common but over 6″ possible in isolated spots. Street flooding is most likely, but bayou and creek flooding cannot be completely ruled out.
Some rain will be a welcome relief from budding drought conditions. Addicks and Barker reservoirs are empty and area bayous are low. We can handle several inches of rain if it comes down at a manageable rate.
Along the coast, expect deteriorating conditions with minor coastal flooding, rough seas, and waves building up to 7 feet as winds increase to near gale force Sunday and Monday. And if you’re thinking about swimming, do it near a life guard station since rip currents will be a major problem.
