AUSTIN, TX — Tropical Storm Imelda made landfall on the Texas coast in Freeport around 1:40 p.m. Tuesday, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Gov. Abbott issued a statement Monday saying he is mobilizing the state's resources and placing them on standby as severe weather approaches the Texas coast.
On Tuesday at 1:01 p.m., the National Hurricane Center announced the formation of Tropical Storm Imelda.
NEW: Tropical Storm #Imelda has formed just south of the coast of Texas. For more: see local products from @NWSHouston @NWSLakeCharles , storm information at https://t.co/tW4KeFW0gB and heavy rainfall forecasts from @NWSWPC pic.twitter.com/pdae8lIxqs
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 17, 2019
The State Operations Center was also elevated to Level 3 (Increased Readiness) on Monday, according to Abbott.
Four Texas A&M Task Force One Boat Squads in Southeast Coastal areas are on stand by with the Division of Emergency management, according to Gov. Abbott. Boats were also being moved by Texas Parks & Wildlife to Beaumont and adjacent areas.
"State assets have been positioned for quick deployment in the regions expected to be impacted by these storms," said Abbott. "I encourage all Texans in the southeast coastal area to heed all warnings from local officials and pay close attention to weather reports as this system approaches."
As severe weather approaches the Gulf Coast, Texas is taking necessary precautions to ensure local officials have the resources they need to respond and keep Texans safe. Learn more: https://t.co/ecywwzwAhz pic.twitter.com/CpplPTbDWn
— Gov. Greg Abbott (@GovAbbott) September 16, 2019
For Central Texans,25 News' Matt Hines says the highest impact is expected to the north and east of Bryan/College Station where 1-4 inches of rain with locally higher amounts are possible. The rest of Central Texas could see 1-3 inches of rain through Friday, especially east of I-35.
On Wednesday, scattered showers and storms will develop, especially in areas east of I-35. Locally heavy rain is possible with the stronger storms. Then on Thursday, scattered showers and storms will be possible across all of Central Texas. Areas west of I-35 will see much lower rain amounts when compared to folks east of I-35. By Friday, scattered showers and storms with locally heavy rain will remain possible.
On Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 1:01 p.m. CST. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) announced the formation of Tropical Storm Imelda.
On Tuesday at 11 a.m., the NHC reported Tropical Depression #11 had formed in the gulf coast.
Agencies involved in emergency response include: The Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Highway Patrol, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Military Department, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, Texas A&M Task Force One and State Mass Care Team.
Texans should follow these safety tips in the event of severe weather:
- When severe storms threaten, the safest place to be is indoors.
- Avoid areas already flooded and avoid any fast-flowing water.
- Be extremely cautious of any water on roads or in creeks, streams, storm drains, or other areas – never attempt to cross flowing streams or drive across flooded roadways and always observe road arricades placed for your protection. Remember, Turn Around Don’t Drown.
- Dangerous waters can seem deceptively calm, and if you encounter flooding, move to higher ground.
- Keep in mind that flood dangers are even harder to recognize at night.
- Stay informed by monitoring weather radios and news broadcasts for updated information on current and anticipated severe weather in your area.
For additional safety tips related to thunderstorms and flooding, click here.
