Weather
Texas Weather: Isaias Could Bring 6-8 Foot Gulf Seas Friday
Corpus Christi, TX – Tropical Storm Isaias is forecast to remain well east of Texas, but South Texas beaches and Gulf waters could still face dangerous conditions as rough seas, rip currents and coast
By Lena Wood · 2026-10-07T11:28:42.213Z
Corpus Christi, TX – Tropical Storm Isaias is forecast to remain well east of Texas, but South Texas beaches and Gulf waters could still face dangerous conditions as rough seas, rip currents and coastal flooding concerns increase.
According to the National Weather Service in Corpus Christi, Tropical Depression Nine strengthened into Tropical Storm Isaias with the 4 a.m. CDT update Wednesday. The storm is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane Thursday.
A direct tropical strike is not currently expected along the Middle Texas Coast. Instead, forecasters are emphasizing marine and beach hazards developing well away from the storm's center.
Open Gulf seas are forecast to increase to 6 to 8 feet Friday and Saturday , while the rip current risk is expected to increase this weekend. Coastal flooding concerns are also rising because of combined tidal and wind driven influences.
Separate marine forecasts show even rougher conditions near the coast. From Baffin Bay to the Matagorda Ship Channel, seas could reach 5 to 7 feet Thursday and 7 to 9 feet Friday , with northeast winds of 20 to 25 knots and gusts reaching 30 knots.
Those conditions could be particularly hazardous for small craft and inexperienced mariners.
Along beaches near Corpus Christi and surrounding coastal communities, persistent northeast winds and tidal influences could push water farther up the shoreline during high tide cycles. Beachgoers should also remain cautious as surf and rip current conditions deteriorate.
Despite the coastal hazards, South Texas remains hot, with temperatures generally reaching the upper 80s to middle 90s through the weekend.
Residents, boaters and visitors along the Corpus Christi area and Middle Texas Coast should monitor updated forecasts as Isaias strengthens and moves across the Gulf.