26 Jul 2020 | 05:28 PM UTC
US: Flooding reported in southern Texas as Tropical Storm Hanna loses strength on July 26 /update 5
Flooding reported in southern Texas as Tropical Storm Hanna loses strength on July 26; further flooding and disruptions to transportation, power, and communications to be expected in the near term
Event
Flooding has been reported in southern Texas as Tropical Storm Hanna loses strength on Sunday, July 26. The storm, which made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane, has since been downgraded as it moves into Mexico. As the storm decreases in intensity, the tropical storm warning for the Texan coast south of Baffin Bay has been canceled, although it remains in effect between Barra el Mezquital (Mexico) and the mouth of the Rio Grande River, on the US-Mexico border.
Southern Texas is expected to witness a total rainfall of 150 mm to 300 mm (6-12 in), with isolated areas seeing up to 450 mm (18 in). Life-threatening floods are possible, particularly near rivers and streams, as are strong swells and rip-tides along the coast of Texas and Louisiana. Areas of Texas have reported damage from the storm, with a pier collapsing in Corpus Christi, localized flooding has been reported throughout the south of the state, and up to 250,000 people remain without power. Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration in 32 counties as well as a federal emergency disaster declaration request, and the counties of McAllen, Mission, Brownsville, San Benito, Donna, Mercedes, Raymondville, and Lyford have flash flood warnings in effect. A tornado warning has also been issued for the majority of southern Texas until 22:00 (local time).
As of 10:00, Tropical Storm Hanna had maximum sustained winds of 75 kph (45 mph), with the eye of the storm near Ciudad Cerralvo (Mexico). Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and associated flooding, and dangerous seas are likely to affect southern Texas coastal areas until Monday, July 27. Associated disruptions to transportation, power, communications, and business are to be expected in the near term.
Advice
Those in areas forecast to be affected by the storm system are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
