Beryl Set to Intensify and Impact South Texas This Weekend

Summary:

CNN — Tropical Storm Beryl is projected to strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane as it approaches the South Texas coast late this weekend, potentially marking the first U.S. landfall of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. The storm, which has already caused significant damage and fatalities in the Caribbean, is expected to bring damaging winds, life-threatening storm surges, and heavy rainfall to Texas starting Sunday.
Key Points:

• Storm Strength: Beryl, currently a tropical storm, is expected to regain strength and make landfall near Corpus Christi, Texas, on Monday.
• Warnings Issued: Hurricane and storm surge warnings and watches have been extended along the Texas coast.
• Impact Forecast: Heavy rainfall of 5 to 10 inches, with localized amounts up to 15 inches, is expected, causing flash and urban flooding.
• Casualties: At least nine people have died due to Beryl in the Caribbean.
• Climate Change: The storm’s severity has been exacerbated by climate change, leading to increased rainfall and stronger winds.
• Evacuations: Various counties in Texas have issued evacuation orders, with officials urging residents to prepare for severe weather conditions.
  Preparations and Advisories:
• Texas Officials: Urging residents in low-lying areas to evacuate and prepare.
• Local Authorities: Issuing voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders in several counties including Refugio, Matagorda, Aransas, Kleberg, and Nueces.
• Disaster Declaration: A local state of disaster has been declared in Corpus Christi.
  Humanitarian Efforts: Relief efforts are ongoing in the Caribbean, with residents assessing damage and various charities distributing aid.
  Note: For those affected by the storm, CNN recommends using their lite site for low bandwidth access to information.