Hurricane Hunters investigating possible tropical disturbance off Texas coast

Hurricane Hunters have been investigating a tropical disturbance Thursday that has moved into the Gulf this week as Texas watches for the potential of heavy rainfall from the system.

The National Hurricane Center designated the disturbance Invest 98L late Wednesday. Invest is a term used to describe an area being closely monitored for possible development by the NHC.

According to the NHC, the system has a medium chance of development before it moves into Texas or Mexico this weekend.

Hurricane Hunters based in Mississippi began a mission into Invest 98L on Thursday. These flights are crucial to forecasting tropical weather as the data allows for better output from computer models.

“It will likely move over the Mexican coast and spread moisture into south and south-central Texas tomorrow (Friday),” FOX Weather Hurricane Specialist Bryan Norcross wrote on his blog Thursday. “Even if it were to develop into a tropical depression, the impact on land wouldn’t be significantly different.”

Invest 98L is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and rip currents to areas, especially along the southern Texas coast.

On Wednesday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott ordered officials to activate state resources ahead of the tropical disturbance’s arrive in the state.

“As Texas braces for incoming heavy rain and strong winds along the Gulf Coast and South Texas, I activated emergency response resources to help local officials protect their fellow Texans,” Abbott said in a written statement.

“This tropical system could lead to dangerous travel conditions and potential flash flooding. Texans are urged to take all necessary precautions for potential tropical weather, regularly check road conditions before traveling, and have an emergency plan to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”

While this system won’t likely become a full-fledged tropical system, it serves as a reminder that coastal residents should be prepared for one.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs until Nov. 30. August to October is the most active stretch, while Sept. 10 marks the peak.