20 Jun 2024 | 03:25 PM UTC
Mexico: Tropical Depression Alberto tracking westward over San Luis Potosi State as of early June 20 /update 4
TD Alberto tracking westward over San Luis Potosi State, Mexico, early June 20. Adverse weather likely to continue over the coming hours.
Tropical Depression Alberto is tracking westward over San Luis Potosi State early June 20, having made landfall as a tropical storm over Mexico's northeast coast near the border between Tamaulipas and Veracruz around 04:30 June 20. As of 10:00 CDT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 155 km (95 miles) west of Tampico, Mexico.
Forecast models indicate that the system will weaken further and then dissipate as it tracks westward further inland over San Luis Potosi, southeastern Aguascalientes states June 20. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur over the coming days.
Officials have discontinued all tropical storm warnings as of early June 20.
The system is forecast to produce rainfall totals of 12.5-25 cm (5-10 inches) across northeastern Mexico, with localized higher amounts of up to 51 cm (20 inches) possible in elevated areas of Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas, whilst rainfall amounts will diminish in southern Texas through June 20. Flash and urban flooding, along with new and renewed river flooding, are likely. Landslides are possible in areas of higher terrain across northeastern Mexico.
Storm surge is possible along parts of the coast and could reach 0.6-1.2 meters (2-4 feet) from Sargent to Sabine Pass in Texas and Galveston Bay and 0.3-0.9 meters (1-3 feet) in coastal areas of northeastern Mexico, from the mouth of the Rio Grande to Sargent in Texas, and from Sabine Pass, Texas, to the Vermilion-Cameron parish line, Louisiana. Swells generated by the storm will affect the coast of Texas and northeastern Mexico through June 21; life-threatening surf and rip current conditions are likely.
Authorities have activated more than 6,700 emergency shelters across 12 states ahead of the storm's approach; however, it is unclear how many people have been housed in these shelters. Schools have been suspended across Tamaulipas State June 20-21. Many beaches have been closed and several ports on the Gulf of Mexico coast have suspended or restricted operations. Officials have suspended operations on the metro and other public transport systems in Nuevo Leon's state capital Monterrey through the afternoon June 20. Three fatalities have been reported across parts of Nuevo Leon State amid heavy rainfall ahead of Alberto's approach.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible.
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding may increase the incidence of insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
