News Summary
Invest 98 has strengthened, showing a 50% chance of developing into a tropical depression, bringing heavy rainfall to northeastern Mexico and parts of Texas. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Erin is on track to become a major hurricane with winds reaching 145 mph. Residents in Southeast Texas should prepare for potential flooding and storms while storm Erin moves primarily toward Bermuda and the East Coast, avoiding direct contact with the Gulf Coast.
Tropical Update: Invest 98 Strengthens with 50% Chance of Development; Storm Erin Set to Become Major Hurricane
Houston, Texas – Invest 98 has strengthened, now carrying a 50% chance of developing into a short-lived tropical depression, as reported by the National Hurricane Center (NHC). This system is expected to generate significant rainfall, particularly impacting northeastern Mexico and parts of Texas. However, by midday Friday, development chances for Invest 98 were downgraded to nearly zero as the system began moving inland near the Rio Grande.
The tropical disturbance is predicted to deliver heavy rainfall to regions in northeastern Mexico and South Texas. The Houston area could also experience increased rain chances and potential storms through Saturday. Meteorologists forecast heavy rain, isolated street flooding, and a heightened risk of rip currents for Southeast Texas on both Friday and Saturday. Authorities have established a 1/4 risk for flooding in the area, urging residents to remain aware of the weather conditions.
In a separate development, Tropical Storm Erin has intensified and is on track to become the first major hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, with maximum winds anticipated to reach 145 mph. Currently, Erin is moving westward and is not expected to make direct contact with the Gulf Coast. Instead, it poses a risk primarily to Bermuda and the East Coast, while simultaneously generating larger wave activity along beaches from Florida to New England.
As the storm continues to gain strength, forecast models suggest it may track northward, staying clear of Caribbean islands. The NHC reports that the Gulf remains relatively calm, with no named storms or immediate development forecasted. However, rain from the Gulf disturbance associated with Invest 98 could still lead to scattered tropical downpours across Southeast Texas.
Current Conditions and Future Outlook
While Invest 98 has faced a downgrade in its development chances as it moves inland, meteorologists are monitoring the weather closely. Meanwhile, the forecast for Tropical Storm Erin indicates a gradual strengthening as it traverses the Atlantic. Updates are necessary, as changes in moisture patterns and storm development are common throughout the hurricane season.
Residents of Southeast Texas are advised to prepare for the possibility of heavy rainfall and flooding as the weather systems unfold. While Storm Erin’s trajectory appears to steer clear of landfall in the United States, continued vigilance is essential as the situation evolves.
Historical Context and Significance
This tropical update serves as a reminder of the crucial nature of hurricane season preparedness. With the season already underway, the impact of weather disturbances can vary significantly. Those residing in areas prone to flooding or severe weather conditions should take proactive measures to protect themselves and their property.
As the NHC continues to provide updates on both Invest 98 and Tropical Storm Erin, awareness and readiness remain essential for residents in affected areas. Keeping informed about evolving weather patterns can help communities better brace for potential impacts from these tropical systems.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 26 Houston
- Wikipedia: Tropical cyclone
- Houston Chronicle
- Google Search: Tropical storms 2025
- KHOU 11 News
- Google Scholar: Tropical weather forecast
- Click2Houston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical storm
- MSN Weather
- Google News: Hurricane season 2025
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
