Tropical Storm Harold made landfall on Padre Island, Texas, on Tuesday morning, August 22, 2023, with sustained winds of 50 mph and gusts up to 67 mph. The storm is the first to make landfall in the United States in the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season.
Harold formed in the Gulf of Mexico on Monday and quickly intensified. The storm brought heavy rain and strong winds to the Texas coast, causing power outages and flooding. As of Tuesday afternoon, more than 25,000 customers were without power in the state.
The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for parts of southern Texas and northern Mexico. The storm is expected to continue to produce heavy rain and strong winds as it moves inland.
Officials are urging residents to stay safe and to follow the instructions of local officials.
Here are some tips for staying safe during a tropical storm:
* Stay indoors and away from windows.
* If you must go outside, wear sturdy shoes and avoid flooded areas.
* Turn off all electrical appliances and unplug all electronics.
* Bring pets indoors or to a safe location.
* Monitor local news and weather reports for updates.
If you are in an area that is under a flash flood watch, be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Tropical Storm Harold is a reminder that the hurricane season is still active. It is important to be prepared for severe weather events, even if they are not expected in your area.
