Corpus Christi, Texas – Tropical Storm Bertha is closing in on the Texas coast, bringing increasing chances for heavy rain, thunderstorms and hazardous beach conditions across South Texas later today and tonight. The greatest rainfall threat extends across areas south of a line from Victoria to Laredo, where localized flooding could develop.
According to the National Weather Service in Corpus Christi, Tropical Storm Bertha continues moving westward along the northern Gulf Coast and is expected to move inland later today. Forecast guidance indicates 1 to 3 inches of rainfall across much of South Texas south of a line from Victoria to Laredo, with locally higher amounts possible where heavier rain bands persist.
The heaviest rain is expected this evening and overnight, when repeated thunderstorms could lead to ponding on roads, reduced visibility and localized flooding in poor drainage areas. Motorists should be prepared for rapidly changing travel conditions and avoid driving through flooded roadways.
In addition to the rainfall threat, the National Weather Service warns of a moderate risk of rip currents along Gulf-facing beaches. Dangerous surf conditions can develop even if skies are partly sunny, and beachgoers are urged to swim only near lifeguards and follow local beach safety advisories.
Residents along the middle Texas coast should continue monitoring forecasts from the National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center as Bertha moves inland. While widespread catastrophic flooding is not expected, localized higher rainfall totals could produce isolated flash flooding, and additional advisories or warnings may be issued if conditions worsen.
