Texas Braces for Tropical Storm Bertha as Heavy Rain, Flooding Threat Loom

Tropical Storm Bertha has formed over the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to move toward the Texas coast later this week, prompting warnings of heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and strong winds.

According to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), the system, previously known as Tropical Depression Two, has strengthened into the second named storm of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. Forecasts indicate that Bertha will continue moving westward toward the Texas Gulf Coast.

Meteorologists warned that parts of southeastern Texas, including Houston and Galveston, could receive several inches of rain, increasing the risk of flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

State and local authorities have begun preparing for the storm. Utility companies have activated emergency response plans, while some energy facilities along the Gulf Coast have evacuated non-essential personnel and temporarily scaled back operations.

Officials cautioned that Bertha’s track and intensity could still change and urged residents to monitor official weather updates and complete storm preparations in advance.