Eyes on the Tropics

The National Hurricane Center announced that Tropical Depression Two has formed in the northeastern Gulf this morning, Sunday July 19th. While there is no immediate threat to Southeast Texas, it will be important to watch closely this week as it develops and moves westward along the coast.

Impacts

Tropical Depression Two is expected to slowly but gradually strengthen and by tomorrow morning is expected to become the second named storm of the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane season, Bertha. Tropical Storm conditions are possible for the Florida Panhandle over the next day or two where it is then expected to turn westward and move along the Gulf Coast in the middle and latter portions of the week. The NHC notes that Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas should look out for possible Tropical Storm Watches over the next day or two.

For Galveston County there is currently a 5-10% chance for Tropical-Storm-Force winds (39+ mph sustained) to impact the area by Thursday morning, however it is possible they can arrive Wednesday night. Currently, no estimated rainfall or peak surge totals have been given for Southeast Texas, where I will be getting to my next point. There is some uncertainty with the exact track and intensity of this system. How much the system interacts with land along the coast will play a big role in it’s intensity by the time it approaches the western Gulf Coast. It will be important to stay up-to-date with the latest information regarding this system as it approaches, and we will provide it all here at KGTX 7.

The Heat Isn’t Going Anywhere

Aside from the tropics, high pressure is in control across Southeast Texas and heat will continue to be the main story this week. A somewhat drier airmass will keep the humidity down during the first half of the week, but temperatures will still climb to the mid 90s by midweek and some areas locally could get close to triple digits. Moisture will increase Wednesday where heat index values could exceed 105°F and slight chances for isolated showers and thunderstorms will persist through Friday.

Bottom Line

• Keep an eye out for updates from the National Hurricane Center and here at KGTX 7 regarding Tropical Depression Two as it moves west along the Gulf Coast toward Houston.
• The heat is still the biggest concern; drink plenty of water, wear light and loose fitted clothing, limit time outdoors during peak afternoon hours, and check on your neighbors.

Have a great week!