Latest Guidance from NHC Shows Tropical Storm Veering Southwest

Tropical Depression 8 is very close to becoming a tropical storm, likely later this evening or early Friday. TD 8 is continuing to move toward the WNW at 8mph. However, the track of the storm has shifted slightly south. That should reduce both rainfall and winds in the Houston area, compared to yesterday’s forecast.

Regardless, tropical storm warnings are issued for the TX coast from Port Mansfield to San Luis Pass. And a tropical Storm Watch remains in effect from San Luis Pass to High Island.

Landfall Now Predicted Between Corpus and Rockport

NHC now predicts landfall between Corpus and Rockport around mid-day on Saturday as an intensifying tropical storm, packing winds up to 60 mph. Some models predict it could become a hurricane.

3-5 Inches Still Possible South of I-10

Jeff Lindner, Harris County meteorologist now predicts, “3-5 inches of widespread rainfall south of I-10 with isolated higher totals. “Much of this will likely come from various feeder bands. Maximum totals of 10 inches or greater will be possible from Matagorda Bay southward.”

Winds in 20-30 mph Range

Winds across the Houston region could increase to 20-30 mph by early Friday. Higher winds will occur farther southwest. Says Lindner, “Sustained tropical storm force winds will be most likely near/around Matagorda Bay on Saturday with 40-50mph. Winds of 50-60mph will be likely in the portion of the mid coast from Corpus Christi to Seadrift.”

Posted by Bob Rehak on 8/23/2020 at 5 p.m.

1059 Days since Hurricane Harvey