Brownsville, Texas – A tropical disturbance in the western Gulf of Mexico is moving toward the Texas–Mexico border, bringing a risk of heavy rain through the weekend. The system, designated as 98L, is expected to come ashore within hours, limiting the potential for tropical cyclone development.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, recent aircraft and radar data show no closed circulation, and the trough axis is already close to the coast. With only a short time over water, the chance of formation is just 20% over the next 48 hours and seven days.
While a tropical storm is unlikely, residents in southern Texas, particularly near Brownsville and Harlingen, could see periods of heavy downpours that may lead to localized flooding. Northeastern Mexico will face similar conditions. Drivers are advised to avoid low-lying roads during heavy rain and to monitor local alerts for possible flash flood warnings.
Rainfall impacts are expected to diminish early next week, but updated advisories may be issued if conditions change.
