Here is the latest track and intensity forecast for Tropical Storm Beta.
No change in the thinking with the track as a ridge of high pressure to our north continues to steer the storm toward the west into Texas late on Monday.
The storm will continue to be a slow mover once it moves inland into Texas.
Thereafter, the storm is expected to make a run to the northeast as a trough moves in from the west helping to pull it out of the area.
Impacts to Acadiana have not changed. We will continue to be on the eastern side of this system (yes, the eastern side is usually the worst side of a tropical system, but it is important to remember that we are not dealing with a full blown hurricane like Laura or Sally).
So what does this all mean for us in Acadiana?
For starters, as the storm moves to our south and west, that'll keep a persistent east/southeasterly flow across the region meaning tides are expected to increase 1-3 feet along the coast (2-4 feet possible along parts of Cameron Parish and SW LA).
Our other main threat will be the locally heavy rainfall that will accompany the tropical rain bands that move in from the Gulf through mid-week.
Most of us across Acadiana can expect to pick up 3-6" through the week with localized hotspots of 6-12" possible, especially along the coast and SE LA.
Areas where we see "training" of rain bands for a prolonged period of time can expect to pick up a quick 2-3" in an hour or two.
Thus, localized flash flooding will be likely in some areas. Again, the areas that will be most at risk for these higher rainfall amounts will be along our coastal parishes and areas to our east.
Bottom line is that the heavy rainfall potential is certainly there and we will be watching it closely in the days ahead.
Here is some model guidance on rainfall estimates. These values are NOT an official forecast.
