The Atlantic hurricane season has begun with Tropical Storm Arthur forming near the Gulf coast on Wednesday, bringing intense rain and the threat of dangerous flash floods to states including Texas and Louisiana, meteorologists reported.
Arthur's Formation and Path
Arthur, initially a disorganized cluster of storms, had been bringing rain for days over parts of eastern Mexico and the Gulf. The National Hurricane Center in Miami noted that conditions were favorable for a short-lived tropical storm to develop. By Wednesday morning, the storm's center was located about 40 miles east-northeast of Port O'Connor, Texas, moving northeast at near 9 mph, with an expected increase in forward speed.
Primary Threat: Heavy Rainfall
Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, stated during a briefing that flash flood warnings were already being issued in the Houston metro area, with more likely across the region even after the storm's center passes. "The main threat from Arthur is going to be a prolonged, multiday, heavy rainfall event that could produce dangerous to life-threatening flash flooding," Brennan emphasized.
Arthur had maximum sustained winds of 40 mph, with little change expected before it moves over land. Weakening is anticipated once inland, and the storm could dissipate by Wednesday night or early Thursday.
Flooding and Other Hazards
Life-threatening flash flooding and urban flooding are the primary concerns as Arthur skirts the Gulf coast. The National Hurricane Center warned that flooding is likely through Friday over parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida panhandle. Rainfall totals of 5-10 inches are expected, with isolated higher amounts near 20 inches.
The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry coastal areas to flood. Swells generated by Arthur may create life-threatening surf and rip current conditions along the northwestern Gulf coast for the next couple of days. Tornadoes are also possible through Thursday.
Impact on Houston World Cup Match
Houston is hosting a World Cup match on Wednesday between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The stadium is covered, and no plans have been announced to move or reschedule the match.
