Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
The National Weather Service is monitoring a tropical disturbance in the Bay of Campeche that could push significant tropical moisture into South Texas this weekend, raising rain chances across the Rio Grande Valley.
Forecasters place the system’s development odds at 10% within 48 hours and about 20% over the next week. While the chance of becoming a tropical storm remains low, the disturbance is expected to track west-northwest over the warm waters of the southwestern Gulf, increasing rain potential Friday through Sunday.
| Potential Impacts |
| • Rain and Flooding: Scattered to locally heavy showers could produce nuisance flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas. Rain chances are expected to range between 20% and 40% beginning Friday. |
| • Coastal Hazards: Elevated swells and stronger rip currents may develop along Gulf beaches, posing risks to swimmers and boaters. |
| • Wind Gusts: Onshore winds could pick up along the Coastal Bend, especially during periods of heavier rainfall. |
| • Heat Relief: Cloud cover and rainfall may bring brief relief from triple-digit temperatures inland. |
Recent Patterns and Precautions
Even without formal storm formation, tropical disturbances have historically caused significant impacts. In June, Tropical Storm Barry, which also formed in the Bay of Campeche, delivered heavy rains to parts of Texas despite its short life.
Meteorologists urge residents to monitor forecasts closely, especially during August and September, the peak of hurricane season.
| Preparedness Tips |
| 1. Stay Informed: Follow updates from the National Hurricane Center and local news outlets. |
| 2. Avoid Risky Waters: Stronger rip currents and choppy seas could arrive before any rain does. |
| 3. Plan for Delays: Outdoor events may face interruptions from scattered downpours. |
While this disturbance may never receive a name, it could still bring the kind of sudden, localized impacts South Texans know well.
