Tropical Storm Edouard is predicted to bring heavy rain and possible flash flooding to Texas as it nears the Texas-Louisiana border for an anticipated Tuesday afternoon landfall. Coastal areas from the Bolivar Peninsula east to Louisiana are under tropical storm warnings, with forecasters anticipating sustained inland winds of 20 to 30 miles per hour and gusts up to 40 mph. The National Hurricane Center indicated the storm could strengthen as it moves over warm waters, though it is expected to weaken rapidly once inland. A storm surge of 3 to 5 feet is also possible from High Island to the east.
Rainfall remains a primary concern. The National Weather Service forecasts two to five inches of rain as the storm moves inland in a northwest direction. The highest potential rainfall is expected over a swath from the Bolivar area, through the eastern Houston region to Huntsville. Some isolated spots could receive 6 to 9 inches, with rainfall rates of 3 to 4 inches an hour in places. The National Hurricane Center stated this rain is likely to produce flash flooding, especially in low-lying and urban areas, and river flooding is possible. Jimmy Fowler, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston office, stated in a Monday webinar that flash flooding would be possible "especially over areas of poor drainage" where heavier rainfall occurs.
Governor Greg Abbott stated Monday that the Harris County area, encompassing much of Houston, could experience the most intense rainfall, with local totals potentially reaching 10 to 15 inches. Abbott urged people to prepare and remain vigilant, particularly after dark on Tuesday night, cautioning against driving into flooded roadways. In preparation, the state has deployed rescue aircraft, boats, and high water vehicles. Texas also activated its emergency operations center and 1,500 state personnel. Several Houston-area school districts, including Channelview, Galena Park, and Humble, announced closures for Tuesday due to the potential for flooding.
Officials had less time than usual to prepare for Edouard, as the storm's potential impacts on Texas were not evident until Sunday morning. The storm was elevated from a tropical depression to a tropical storm on Monday evening. This event follows less than two months after heavy rains caused significant flooding in southwest Texas, including Uvalde, Crystal City, and Kerrville. Major federal funds for rebuilding from this year’s flooding have still not been approved. Additionally, officials are monitoring the potential for Edouard's winds to ignite fires, given the state's ongoing battle with major wildfires this month. Vigilance is advised as the storm moves inland.
