San Antonio/ Weather & Environment
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Published on June 20, 2024
Tropical Storm Alberto Hits Mexico, Spurs Weather Alerts and Flood Warnings in South Texas and San AntonioSource: Unsplash/ Phillip Flores

The first named storm of the 2024 hurricane season, Tropical Storm Alberto, made its presence known as it hit landfall over Mexico early Thursday. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) confirmed the storm's arrival around 7 a.m. CDT, with tropical storm watches and warnings lifted along the U.S. Gulf Coast as conditions began to improve for the southern Texas region.

Despite the storm's downgrade, South Texas experienced widespread rain with the National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio reporting moderate to heavy showers. KENS 5 noted rainfall amounts ranging from 1-2 inches in San Antonio, but higher accumulations exceeding 4 inches in some southern areas.

Concerns for public safety prompted a Tornado Watch to be issued for several communities south of San Antonio, according to a statement obtained by KENS 5. This watch was set to last until 7 a.m. Thursday, alerting residents to the possibility of severe weather, including tornados.

In Mexico, a Tropical Storm Warning remains active for areas south of the Rio Grande to Tecolutla. Meanwhile, USA TODAY reported gusts over 50 mph along the Texas Coastal Bend and rainfall totals between 2 to 7 inches. USA TODAY also highlighted the risk of flooding, with a watch in effect until 1 p.m. local time this afternoon and an ongoing coastal flood warning through Friday evening due to Alberto's impact.

As Texans and Mexicans grasp the tail of Alberto's tumultuous visit, utilities managed to remain largely unaffected in San Antonio, with CPS Energy reporting minimal outages. Commuters have been advised to stay vigilant for any residual or rising waters on roadways, adhering to the familiar adage: turn around, don’t drown.