This is a message from the City of La Porte encouraging residents to be prepared for Tropical Storm Beta. According to the National Weather Service, the city is now under a Hurricane Watch, Storm Surge Watch, and Tropical Storm Warning. As the system moves toward the Texas coast, it is expected to strengthen into a hurricane. Some weakening may occur as it moves north along the coast, but we should still be prepared for stronger winds to impact our area. Regardless of its eventual track, this system will result in minor to moderate coastal flooding for areas along Galveston Bay. Residents who live east of Broadway can expect water levels to rise as much as 4-5 feet above normal low tide and 2-3 feet above normal high tide. Any coastal flooding is likely to remain in effect for several days, which could limit or prevent movement in low lying areas and along roads that may be flooded. If you stay in that area, you may not be able to leave for several days, depending on the amount of coastal flooding we experience. Throughout the city, we can expect lower end tropical storm force winds beginning late Sunday evening or early Monday. Wind speeds may increase as the center of the storm tracks closer to Galveston Bay. In preparation for this, please remove all household garbage and heavy trash from the curb, and secure any outdoor items at your home by tomorrow. Stronger winds could cause residents to lose power, so be prepared for the possibility of power outages.
All residents are urged to continue monitoring future weather updates for Tropical Storm Beta. For more information, follow the La Porte Office of Emergency Management and National Hurricane Center on Facebook and Twitter, or visit LaPorteTX.gov.