Houston Braces for Tropical Storm Beryl's Impact

July 7, 2024

As Tropical Storm Beryl intensifies in the Gulf of Mexico, the city of Houston is preparing for potential impacts and taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its residents.

Storm Track and Intensity

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Tropical Storm Beryl is currently located approximately 150 miles east-southeast of Corpus Christi, Texas, with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph. The storm is expected to strengthen as it approaches the Texas coast and is projected to become a Category 1 hurricane by the time it makes landfall.

The NHC forecasts that Beryl will make landfall near Galveston, Texas, late Thursday night or early Friday morning. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding to coastal areas of Texas and Louisiana.

Preparations in Houston

City officials in Houston have declared a state of emergency and issued mandatory evacuation orders for residents in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding. Evacuation centers have been established at various locations throughout the city.

The city's emergency management team is working closely with state and federal agencies to coordinate response efforts and provide assistance to residents in need.

Expected Impacts

The primary concerns associated with Tropical Storm Beryl include:

Storm surge: Coastal areas in the path of the storm could experience significant storm surge, which is a rapid rise in sea level that can cause flooding and damage infrastructure.
Heavy rainfall: Beryl is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the Houston area, which could lead to localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage.
Strong winds: The storm's strong winds could cause significant damage to trees, power lines, and structures, resulting in power outages and transportation disruptions.

Evacuation and Sheltering

Residents who have been ordered to evacuate should do so immediately. Evacuation routes and designated shelters can be found on the city's website (www.houstontx.gov).

Those who cannot evacuate or choose to remain in their homes are advised to take the following precautions:

Secure loose objects around their property, such as lawn furniture and outdoor grills.
Fill bathtubs and other containers with water for drinking and sanitation purposes.
Have a battery-powered radio and flashlights on hand.
Stay informed about the storm's track and intensity through local news and official sources.

Power Outages

Power outages are likely to occur during the storm as strong winds may damage power lines. Residents are advised to prepare for extended power outages by having flashlights, battery-operated radios, and non-perishable food items available.

Medical and Transportation

Hospitals and emergency medical services will remain operational during the storm, but residents may experience delays in accessing these services due to road closures and power outages.

Public transportation services will be suspended during the storm's passage and will resume as conditions allow.

Safety Considerations

Residents are urged to take personal safety seriously during the storm and follow the instructions of local officials:

Avoid driving through flooded areas.
Be aware of downed power lines and avoid contact with them.
Stay indoors during the storm and do not go outside unless absolutely necessary.
Monitor weather conditions and local news for updates on the storm's track and intensity.