Tropical Storm Alberto has developed in the western Gulf of Mexico, as reported by the National Hurricane Center. With sustained winds of 40 mph, the storm is currently situated approximately 295 miles away from Brownsville, Texas.
Alberto marks the first named storm of what is anticipated to be a highly active Atlantic hurricane season. The storm's formation aligns closely with historical averages, as the typical onset of the first Atlantic tropical storm falls around June 20, according to the NHC.
Expected to move gradually westward, Alberto is forecasted to approach the northeastern coast of Mexico overnight. Presently, the storm is already impacting the Texas coast with tropical storm-force winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surge.
As Alberto heads towards landfall in Mexico, the timing of the event during the night raises concerns for heightened risks in the affected areas. The storm is projected to bring significant rainfall, with estimates ranging from 5 to 10 inches across northeast Mexico and South Texas. Some areas may experience up to 15 inches of rainfall by Thursday, leading to potential flash floods, urban flooding, and river overflow.
Residents in regions of elevated terrain in northeast Mexico should also be cautious of possible mudslides. Despite the storm losing its tropical storm status by Thursday afternoon due to interaction with Mexico's mountainous landscape, heavy rainfall is expected to persist.
