Austin, Texas – Tropical Storm Bertha continues moving west across the northern Gulf of Mexico and is expected to approach the Texas coast later today, but inland communities across South Central Texas are expected to remain free of direct impacts through the early afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio, no impacts from Bertha are expected across inland South Central Texas through early Thursday afternoon. Later Thursday afternoon through Friday, however, moisture from the tropical system or its remnants could bring a 20% to 50% chance of showers, with the greatest chances across the Coastal Plains.
Forecasters also say wind gusts up to 35 mph will be possible as tropical moisture spreads inland, especially across communities closer to the coast. While widespread flooding is not anticipated across the Austin and San Antonio metro areas, residents should monitor forecast updates as the system moves inland.
Away from the tropical moisture, dangerous heat remains the primary concern. A Heat Advisory remains in effect through 8 p.m. Thursday for all of South Central Texas. Afternoon temperatures will climb into the upper 90s and lower 100s, while heat index values are expected to reach 108 to 112 degrees, increasing the risk of heat-related illness.
Residents should stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and continue monitoring updates from the National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service. While Bertha is not expected to bring significant impacts to inland South Central Texas today, forecast adjustments remain possible as the storm approaches the Texas coastline.
