Tropical Storm Bertha is moving closer to the Texas coast, prompting a Tropical Storm Watch for Galveston and much of the Upper Texas Coast as officials encourage residents to prepare.
While conditions remain relatively calm Thursday morning, emergency managers say storms like Bertha are a good opportunity for people to review their hurricane plans before a stronger storm threatens later this season.
A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Galveston and much of the Upper Texas Coast as Bertha approaches.
Forecasters are expecting:
- Sustained winds of 25 to 35 mph
- Wind gusts up to 45 mph
- The strongest winds are expected late Thursday afternoon into the evening
Rain chances are also expected to increase throughout the day, with the heaviest rainfall forecast along the Interstate 10 corridor and areas south toward the coast.
The increased cloud cover, rain and gusty winds are also expected to provide some relief from the recent extreme heat.
After Houston reached a record 102 degrees on Wednesday, Thursday’s high temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-90s.
Galveston County emergency officials say they are closely monitoring Tropical Storm Bertha but are not anticipating widespread impacts at this time.
Instead, they are encouraging residents to use the storm as a reminder to:
- Review family emergency plans
- Check hurricane supply kits
- Replenish food, water and medications
- Make sure they’re prepared if a stronger storm develops later in the hurricane season
Officials emphasized that while Bertha is not expected to bring significant impacts to the area, it only takes one hurricane to make for an active and dangerous season.
Emergency managers say taking preparedness steps now can make a significant difference if a more powerful storm threatens the Texas Gulf Coast in the coming months.
KPRC 2 will continue monitoring Tropical Storm Bertha and provide updates as conditions change and new information becomes available.