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Hurricane Beryl’s projected path: Which counties in Texas could be impacted?
Texas is now in the “in the cone of uncertainty” of Hurricane Beryl’s path. Which parts of the state could be impacted by the severe storm?
The US National Weather Service Hurricane Center has updated its forecasts for Hurricane Beryl’s trajectory, with the southeastern portion of the state right in the path of the powerful storm. However, by the time Beryl reaches the shore of the Lone Star state, the storm’s strength is expected to have diminished, meaning residents will not be subjected to the devastating and dangerous wind and rain that those in its path have seen over the last few days.
The NWS has warned residents in Jamaica that beginning in just a few short houses, “devastating hurricane-force winds, life-threatening storm surge, and damaging waves are expected in portions” of the Island. The Caymen Islands will face the same threats starting on Thursday.
READ MORE: When does hurricane season start? These are the predictions for 2024
Which areas of Texas could be impacted?
The Texas Department of Emergency Management released a warning on Tuesday evening, citing the current threat some of the state’s residents face as Hurricane Beryl approaches.
The agency has revised residents along the Gulf of Mexico “to keep an eye on the Gulf, heed warnings of local officials, and have a plan in place should tropical weather impacts reach the Texas coast.” They say that Texas finds itself “in the cone of uncertainty,” which is why keeping up to date with emergency alerts is extremely important, as conditions can change rapidly.
How to prepare for a hurricane
This news may not be new to Gulf residents. Many are aware that they should have an emergency hurricane kit prepared in case a major storm develops and there isn’t enough time to gather supplies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has issued guidance on what to keep in your hurricane emergency kit. They recommend gathering most of the items in an easy-to-carry bag you can take if you need to evacuate, but you may need to keep some bulkier items (food and water) separate.
Here’s FEMA’s suggestions for an emergency hurricane kit:
- Water, one gallon per person per day (keep a 3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
- Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food (keep a 3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Batteries
- First aid kit
- Medication and medical items (7-day supply)
- Multi-purpose tool, like a Swiss Army knife
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
- Cell phone, charger and battery pack
- Family and emergency contact information
- Cash, in case ATMs are out of use
Despite the best efforts of forecasters, tropical storms can be extremely unpredictable. Keeping essential items together can save crucial minutes.