A tropical disturbance is hastily making its way to the Gulf of Mexico. Experts say it could mean much-needed rain for the Houston area on Tuesday.
At the end of a torrid, exceptionally dry summer, the tropical wave could be the area's best shot at a respite from the moderate to extreme drought affecting the whole of Harris County. However, it may also move further south before it meets the Texas Gulf Coast.
"I think the going forecast right now would probably be to assume it hits somewhere south of Houston, north of Brownsville," said Matt Lanza with Space City Weather. "It's probably about 50-50 whether it hits here or there."
According to the National Hurricane Center, there is a 20 percent chance the system develops into a tropical depression, but Lanza said the probability that the storm brings particularly strong winds or rainfall is low.
"It's possible, yes, but I wouldn't say it's likely," said Lanza. "There will be a little bit of wind with it but probably nothing damaging."
While scattered storms could bring a slight break from the heat, Lanza said it won't last long.
"If we do get some rain, it will probably in the 80's or 90's again and humid," said Lanza. "Any relief we get from this will be very brief."
This system is unlikely to develop into a serious storm, but Lanza said we are squarely in hurricane season, and Houston-area residents should continue to pay attention to new developments and remain prepared.
