Hurricane Harvey is expected to reach the Texas coast this afternoon as a Category 3 storm carrying winds up to 120 mph. The slow-moving storm will also bring torrential rains as it lingers over the area for days. At 9AM EST, Harvey is expected to bring a storm surge of 6 to 12 feet and rainfall totals of 25–35 inches. The combination may result in “devastating and life-threatening flooding.”
Overnight Harvey strengthened to a Category 2 hurricane, with winds in excess of 100mph. Tropical storm force winds are now reaching Corpus Christi. Harvey is expected to strengthen even more, reaching Category 3 status before it hits land. But the biggest concern about the storm isn’t necessarily the speed—it’s the slowness.
With no steering currents moving Harvey along and no other active weather systems to push the storm up the coast, Harvey is expected to creep across south-central Texas, dropping levels of rain that seem truly incredible. Areas at the center of the storm can expect over 30 inches of rain.
Between a gathering storm surge that may reach 12 feet and a yard of rain expected in some locations, the possibility for extremely dangerous flooding is high. If you are in the region and can get away, do so. Those in the region should expect heavy wind and rain that will persist for an extended period.
Areas expected to be inundated by initial storm surge. All areas colored in this map are expected to be overrun by the surge. If you are in one of these areas—don’t be.
Expected arrival time
Conditions are expected to worsen rapidly throughout the day. If you are in the region and haven’t yet decided to leave, leave now. Both weather conditions and road conditions are expected to make evacuations difficult later in the day. If you are in the region and can’t get out, please be prepared for an extended period without utilities, including water, electricity, and gas.
The Texas National Guard has been activated, FEMA is preparing for a major disaster, and both professional and volunteer groups from across the country are preparing to move in. However, the extended rain and flooding may make it difficult to reach many areas.
Stay safe.
