Liberty County officials are urging residents to make preparations now as a tropical disturbance in the Gulf of America is expected to bring heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and the potential for flooding across Southeast Texas this week.
The Liberty County Office of Emergency Management has activated a Level III (Increased Readiness) status, with law enforcement agencies and first responders on standby as weather conditions are projected to deteriorate over the next few days.
According to Antwyne “A.J.” Johnson, director of the Liberty County Office of Emergency Management, residents should use the current break in the weather to prepare for what could become several days of hazardous conditions.
The National Hurricane Center’s Tropical Weather Outlook issued Monday afternoon shows a disturbance over northeastern Mexico that has a 40 percent chance of tropical cyclone formation within 48 hours and a 50 percent chance within seven days. While development is not expected immediately, forecasters say the system could move into the northwestern Gulf of America by Tuesday or Wednesday, where environmental conditions may become marginally favorable for development.
Regardless of whether a tropical system forms, the National Hurricane Center warns that portions of Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi could experience periods of intense rainfall capable of producing widespread urban, river, and flash flooding. Gusty winds and coastal flooding are also possible along portions of the northwestern Gulf Coast.
Johnson said forecasters are currently predicting between 4 and 7 inches of rainfall across portions of the area over the next two days, with isolated locations potentially receiving as much as 10 inches. Because of the flooding threat, a flood watch has been issued for the region. He also urged residents who live in low-lying areas or locations that have flooded in the past to pay particularly close attention to changing weather conditions and forecasts throughout the week. Those residents should be prepared to take action quickly if flood warnings are issued or water begins to rise near their homes.
Forecast models also indicate another weather system moving east from New Mexico on Wednesday that could interact with the tropical moisture already in place and prolong the wet weather pattern across Southeast Texas.
Liberty County is expected to see a break in the weather Monday night before storms redevelop Tuesday and Wednesday, particularly across the southern portions of the county.
“Now is the time for residents to be making their preparations,” Johnson said.
He encouraged residents to review their emergency plans, monitor changing weather conditions, and ensure they have multiple ways to receive information. Residents should closely monitor watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service and stay connected through reliable news sources, including Bluebonnet News and other local news outlets.
Johnson also recommends households maintain at least a 72-hour supply of food, drinking water, prescription medications, pet food, and pet medications. Additional preparedness items should include batteries, tarps, and other emergency supplies. Residents are encouraged to keep vehicles fueled and gather important documents, including insurance policies and vital records, in a central, easily accessible location.
“We encourage everyone to pay attention to watches and warnings as they are issued,” Johnson said.
County officials will continue monitoring the situation and coordinating with local agencies as forecasts evolve throughout the week.