Tropical Storm Alberto Threatens Mexico’s Gulf Coast, Claims Lives

As Tropical Storm Alberto approached the Gulf Coast, its outer bands began to drench northeastern Mexico near the U.S. border with heavy rainfall late Wednesday.

This large tropical system, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (80 kph), has already claimed the lives of at least three people, prompting military and emergency services to prepare for its full impact.

Alberto, the first named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, is currently located about 135 miles (217 km) east of the Mexican port of Tampico.

While its sustained wind speeds haven’t reached hurricane strength yet, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) anticipates some “slight strengthening” overnight.

The storm has tragically resulted in the deaths of at least three people, all minors, as confirmed by Nuevo Leon state Governor Samuel Garcia.

Santa Catarina river. Photo credits : Reuters

While details remain limited, authorities have identified one victim as a 15-year-old boy who drowned after a river’s current swept him away near Monterrey, Mexico’s third-largest city.

Alberto will make landfall along the coast of Mexico’s Tamaulipas state, just south of Texas, early Thursday morning.

While it is projected to weaken rapidly after landfall, it is anticipated to bring torrential rainfall, coastal flooding, and strong winds to the region.

The NHC has issued warnings of significant flash flooding in the storm’s path, including in urban areas, along with rising rivers and potential mudslides.

Mexico’s national water commission, Conagua, has also cautioned about overflowing rivers, landslides, and flooding.

Governor Garcia urged residents in his state to stay home amid the heavy rainfall and assured them that preparations were in place to address any potential impacts on power supplies, water, and sewage systems. Along the U.S.

Gulf Coast, including Texas and Louisiana, social media videos depict flooding in coastal towns and waves crashing against sea walls.

The NHC has also warned of the possibility of coastal flooding and the formation of tornadoes in Texas due to Alberto’s influence. As the storm progresses, authorities and residents remain vigilant and prepared for the challenges it may bring.

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