Hurricane Beryl struck the Texas coast at Matagorda Bay. The storm regained strength over the Gulf of Mexico.
Beryl reached hurricane status with 80 mph sustained winds. This marks the first hurricane landfall in Texas since Hurricane Nicholas in 2021.
Life-Threatening Storm Surge Expected
Forecasters warn of dangerous storm surges up to 7 feet. These surges threaten normally dry areas along the coast.
Storm surge poses one of the greatest risks during hurricanes. Historically, storm surge accounts for nearly half of all hurricane-related deaths.
Heavy Rainfall Threatens Gulf Coast
Beryl brings potential for 10 inches of rain in some locations. This heavy rainfall increases flash flooding risks.
Texas’ Gulf Coast has experienced several major flood events in recent years. The 2017 Hurricane Harvey dropped over 60 inches of rain in some areas.
Texas Prepares for Storm Impact
State troopers fill sandbags in preparation. Residents board up homes along the coast.
The governor declares disasters in 121 counties. Texas has a history of proactive hurricane preparation following devastating storms like Hurricane Ike in 2008.
Schools Close as Precautionary Measure
Houston Independent School District closes campuses for two days. This affects over 200,000 students in the nation’s fourth-largest school district.
School closures are common hurricane preparedness measures. They help reduce traffic and keep families safe during storms.
Dangerous Surf Conditions Reported
Waves in Galveston reach 8 to 10 feet. Forecasters warn of life-threatening surf and rip currents.
Rip currents cause an average of 100 deaths annually in the U.S. Hurricane-generated waves can persist for days after landfall.
Beryl’s Path: Caribbean to Gulf
Beryl crossed the Caribbean as a Category 5 hurricane. It weakened over the Yucatán Peninsula before regaining strength.
The storm’s path mirrors that of many historical Gulf hurricanes. The Gulf’s warm waters often fuel hurricane intensification.
Storm Upgraded to Hurricane Status
National Hurricane Center confirms Beryl’s upgrade to hurricane. Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters provide crucial data.
Hurricane hunters have been flying into storms since 1943. Their data significantly improves forecast accuracy.
Beryl’s Death Toll in Caribbean
At least nine deaths reported across four countries. Casualties occurred between July 1 and July 4.
Caribbean islands are particularly vulnerable to hurricane impacts. Climate change may increase hurricane intensity in this region.
Historical Context of Texas Hurricanes
Beryl is the latest in a long history of Texas hurricanes. The state averages one hurricane landfall every three years.Beryl is the latest in a long history of Texas hurricanes. The state averages one hurricane landfall every three years.
The costliest Texas hurricane was Harvey in 2017, causing $125 billion in damage. The deadliest was the 1900 Galveston hurricane, killing an estimated 8,000 people.
