As Tropical Storm Francine swirls in the southern Gulf of Mexico, Texans are preparing for what could evolve into another major weather event later this week.
Forecasters are closely watching the storm, which could potentially develop into a hurricane before making landfall, according to recent reports.
Francine began as a cluster of thunderstorms but has now gained enough strength to be categorized as a tropical storm. Although current conditions in the Gulf are not particularly conducive to rapid intensification, there is still a possibility that Francine could become a hurricane before it hits land. However, a major hurricane is “very unlikely,” according to a recent report by WFAA.
On Sunday, Gov. Greg Abbott announced in a press release that he would activate additional emergency resources in response to the tropical storm activity in the Gulf.
“Texas stands ready to provide all available resources needed to support Texans as a severe storm system begins to move along the Gulf Coast that will bring potential flash flooding threats and heavy rain,” said Abbott.
Meteorological models suggest that Francine is expected to track along the Mexico-Texas coastline before potentially making landfall somewhere between Galveston and central Louisiana. More accurate predictions will be available as the storm’s path becomes clearer.
Sporadic rainfall is anticipated as the primary concern for Texas; however, heavy rains have yet to be confirmed, according to WFAA. Coastal communities and low-lying areas may also face a heightened risk of flooding if the storm does make landfall in Texas.
Tropical Storm Francine looms as many coastal communities in Texas are still rebuilding after the impact of Hurricane Beryl in July.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Hurricane Beryl killed 10 people and left millions without power throughout Texas for weeks following the storm. On July 10, President Joe Biden signed a disaster declaration for Texas and authorized federal assistance to support state and local recovery operations, acting on a request from Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.
“It’s time to get ready along the entire Gulf Coast. More announcements tomorrow and Tuesday as we get better clarity where this storm might land. In the meantime, Texas is deploying resources across the region to be prepared wherever the storm may hit,” Abbott posted via social media on Sunday.