Tropical Storm Approaches Texas, US... 'Hurricane Watch' Issued

Satellite image capturing Tropical Storm 'Beta' approaching the Texas coast in the Gulf of Mexico. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Hyewon] As tropical storm 'Beta' approaches Texas, USA, hurricane and storm surge watches were issued along the coast on the 19th (local time), according to the daily Washington Post (WP) on the 20th.

The watch is a warning level lower than a advisory or warning and is issued when there is a possibility of the disaster or hazard occurring within 48 hours.

Tropical storm Beta is approaching the Texas coast from the Gulf of Mexico in the southern United States and is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding.

Double-digit rainfall amounts are expected in some areas, and tropical storm Beta may develop into a larger hurricane.

Heavy rain damage may also expand to areas near the southern coast of Louisiana, which was already hit by Hurricane Laura. In Louisiana, about 35,000 households are still without electricity.

Tropical storm Beta is expected to brush past the Texas coast at a very slow speed. Voluntary evacuation recommendations have also been issued in some areas.

Beta is the 23rd named tropical storm this year. The U.S. National Hurricane Center named three storms, including Beta, on the 18th. WP reported that this is the first time since 1933 that three storms were named in one day.