Corpus Christi, TX — Tropical Storm Alberto, the first named system of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, made landfall near Tampico, Mexico, on June 20, but its expansive reach brought significant impacts to southern Texas. The storm’s outer bands delivered heavy rainfall, coastal flooding, and power outages across the region, prompting Texas Governor Greg Abbott to issue a disaster declaration for 51 counties.
Despite making landfall in Mexico, Alberto’s broad circulation caused widespread effects in Texas. Coastal communities from Brownsville to Galveston experienced street flooding and wind gusts exceeding 50 mph. Surfside Beach and the San Luis Pass region reported storm surges of 3 to 5 feet, leading to submerged roads and necessitating high-water rescues. In Corpus Christi, up to 6 inches of rain fell, resulting in flooded streets and damaged infrastructure. The city remained under a flood warning as emergency crews worked to restore power and clear debris.
Governor Abbott’s disaster declaration mobilized state resources to assist affected areas. The Texas Division of Emergency Management activated response teams, while the Texas National Guard was deployed to assist with search and rescue operations. The Texas Department of Transportation assessed road conditions and cleared debris from highways. State agencies coordinated with local officials to conduct damage assessments and ensure effective resource allocation.
Alberto’s impact extended beyond Texas. In Mexico, the storm caused heavy rainfall, leading to flash floods and mudslides. Three fatalities were reported in the state of Nuevo León, including a man who drowned in the La Silla River and two minors who died from electric shocks in Allende. In Veracruz, a collapsed retaining wall left 24 families homeless. The storm’s heavy rains also washed out a segment of a major highway connecting Monterrey and Saltillo, prompting the suspension of metro and public transport services in Monterrey.
The National Hurricane Center warned of continued heavy rainfall in northeastern Mexico, with potential for life-threatening flash floods and mudslides. In Texas, the main hazard remained flooding from excess rain, with areas along the coast experiencing road flooding and dangerous rip currents. One person drowned in Galveston due to rip currents generated by the storm.
As Alberto dissipated over the mountainous terrain of Mexico, attention turned to recovery efforts. Emergency shelters were set up across the affected regions to provide support to displaced individuals and families. State and local agencies began the process of assessing damage and coordinating with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide federal aid for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.
The storm’s impact underscored the importance of preparedness as the Atlantic hurricane season progresses. With forecasts predicting an active season, officials urged residents to remain vigilant and heed the guidance of state and local authorities to ensure safety.
