Edouard weakens to depression after landfall, bringing heavy rain to SE Texas

Key points

• Edouard made landfall near Johnson Bayou, Louisiana, on Tuesday afternoon with maximum sustained winds of about 35 mph.
• A tropical storm warning was issued for Chambers County, including the Bolivar Peninsula, High Island, and Crystal Beach, with wind gusts exceeding 40 mph.
• Rainfall totals of 3-5 inches were expected across southeast Texas, with isolated amounts reaching 6-9 inches east of I-45; some areas may see up to 12 inches.
• A flood watch was in effect for the eastern half of southeast Texas from late Monday through Wednesday morning.
• The storm weakened to a tropical depression by Wednesday and is expected to dissipate by Wednesday night, moving north-northwest at approximately 5 mph.

Background

Earlier forecasts indicated Edouard might strengthen to a Category 1 hurricane before landfall, but it ultimately arrived as a tropical storm and quickly weakened. Houston-area schools had canceled Tuesday classes in anticipation of severe weather, though impacts on the city were less severe than initially feared. Stage 2 flood alerts were active east of I-45, while Stage 1 alerts covered areas west of the freeway.

How outlets are covering it

KPRC emphasized the reduced rain impact on Houston due to the storm's eastward shift, highlighting higher totals in Chambers and Liberty counties. ABC News focused on the broader threat of heavy rain through Wednesday and the possibility of tornadoes in southwest Louisiana. WESH reported on the storm's weakening to a tropical depression and the potential for significant flash and river flooding. nola.com noted the storm's potential to strengthen before landfall, though it ultimately weakened after making landfall.

Why it matters

The event highlights the variability in tropical storm forecasts and the localized nature of severe weather impacts. While Houston avoided the worst of the storm, southeast Texas communities faced significant flooding and wind risks, underscoring the importance of localized weather alerts and preparedness.

What to watch

The storm is expected to dissipate by Wednesday night. Residents in affected areas should continue to monitor for potential flash flooding and avoid flooded roads. Updates on rainfall totals and any residual impacts will be provided by local meteorologists and the National Hurricane Center.