MIAMI (AP) — A cluster of storms affecting the Gulf Coast formed Tropical Storm Arthur on Wednesday. It was the first tropical cyclone of the Atlantic season. The National Hurricane Center in Miami reported flash flooding as the main concern from this weak tropical storm. Maximum winds reached around 40 mph (65 kph), with little change expected before the storm’s dissipation by Wednesday night or early Thursday.
The storm hovered over coastal Texas during a World Cup match between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Houston, which continued unaltered in the covered stadium. According to National Hurricane Center director Michael Brennan, flash flood warnings were issued in the Houston area, with more expected across the region, extending beyond the storm’s center.
“The main threat from Arthur is a prolonged, multiday, heavy rainfall event that could cause dangerous to life-threatening flash flooding,” Brennan stated.
A tragedy occurred when a teenager apparently drowned in a flooded retention pond outside Houston. A 15-year-old boy entered the water while a group of teens played near a construction area. Rescue workers used sonar to locate his body after an extensive search. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office highlighted this as a serious reminder of floodwater dangers, especially after heavy rains.
Flooding risk remains high through Friday in parts of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle. The tropical storm might bring 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 centimeters) of rain, with isolated totals reaching 20 inches (50 centimeters). Rising waters may lead to flooding in normally dry coastal areas as storm surge combines with tide.
Swells from Arthur could produce life-threatening surf and rip currents along the northwestern Gulf Coast for several days. Tornadoes might also occur through Thursday. On Wednesday morning, Arthur’s center was located approximately 40 miles (65 kilometers) east-northeast of Port O’Connor, Texas, moving northeast at 9 mph (15 kph). An increase in speed was anticipated.