The National Weather Service issued a tropical storm warning for Orange County, Texas, on Monday at 3:58 p.m., in effect until Tuesday at midnight. This comes as a tropical storm is expected to bring potential wind gusts up to 35 mph, storm surge flooding, and moderate rainfall.
Potential Impacts from the Tropical Storm
The NWS highlighted several potential impacts from the tropical storm, including:
Wind
- Latest Local Forecast: Tropical storm force winds remain possible.
- Peak Wind Forecast: 10-20 mph with gusts to 35 mph.
- Potential Impacts: Some damage to roofing and siding materials, along with damage to porches, awnings, carports, and sheds. A few buildings experiencing window, door, and garage door failures. Mobile homes damaged, especially if unanchored. Unsecured lightweight objects become dangerous projectiles. Several large trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Several fences and roadway signs blown over. Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban or heavily wooded places. A few bridges, causeways, and access routes impassable. Scattered power and communications outages, but more prevalent in areas with above ground lines.
Storm Surge
- Latest Local Forecast: Localized storm surge possible.
- Peak Storm Surge Inundation: The potential for up to 2 feet above ground somewhere within surge-prone areas.
- Window of concern: Begins early Tuesday morning.
- Potential Impacts: Localized inundation with storm surge flooding mainly in low-lying spots and in areas along rivers and bayous that drain into Sabine Lake. Sections of roads and parking lots near bodies of water may become overspread with surge water. Driving conditions dangerous in places where surge water covers the road. Minor to locally moderate damage to marinas, docks, and piers. A few small craft broken away from moorings.
Flooding Rain
- Latest Local Forecast: Peak Rainfall Amounts: 2-4 inches, with locally higher amounts.
- Potential Impacts: Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with swifter currents and overspill their banks in a few places, especially in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches overflow. Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken foundations. Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage areas. Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as storm drains and retention ponds overflow. Driving conditions become hazardous. Some road and bridge closures.
Tornado
- Latest Local Forecast: Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes.
- Potential Impacts: Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes.
Staying Safe During a Tropical Storm
The National Weather Service recommends the following safety precautions for residents of Orange County, Texas:
- Plan: Emergency plans should include the potential for moderate flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are possible.
- Prepare: Consider protective actions if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding.
- Act: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action may result in serious injury or loss of life.
A Look at the Latest Sports Action
The world of sports is always full of excitement, and today’s schedule is no exception.
- MLB: Today’s MLB schedule features top teams in action. Among those contests is the Chicago Cubs taking on the Los Angeles Dodgers.
- College Football: There are 63 FBS games on the Week 3 card, with New Mexico State (+20.5) among the best bets.
- WNBA: The Minnesota Lynx versus the Atlanta Dream is one of three compelling options on today’s WNBA slate.
Enjoy the games!
