A tropical storm warning has been issued for the Texas coast as Tropical Storm Alberto is expected to bring heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and significant flooding early in the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.

The National Hurricane Center has escalated the season's first tropical storm watch to a warning, affecting areas from Port O'Connor to the mouth of the Rio Grande. With more than 3 inches of rain expected and coastal areas potentially receiving up to 15 inches, the Texas coast is bracing for flash floods, gusty winds, and moderate coastal flooding beginning Tuesday. These conditions mark the start of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season with significant impacts anticipated for both the coastal and central regions.

Residents along the [Texas coast](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tropical-storm-warning-hurricane-season-texas-flooding-mexico/) are urged to finalize their storm preparations as [Tropical Storm Alberto](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/) approaches. The National Hurricane Center's warning underscores the [potential danger](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/), especially in low-lying areas [prone to flooding](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/). Emergency management officials have advised residents to secure outdoor objects, clear drainage systems, and have an evacuation plan in place.

The Texas Department of Transportation has begun pre-positioning resources such as sandbags and water pumps to mitigate flood risks in the most vulnerable areas. In a statement, Texas Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the readiness of state agencies to respond. 'We are coordinating closely with local authorities to ensure the safety of all Texans,' Abbott said. 'Our top priority is to protect lives and property as we face this storm together.'

Meteorologists are tracking Alberto's path closely, with current models showing the storm making landfall near Corpus Christi. Rainbands are expected to extend far inland, affecting cities such as San Antonio and Austin with [heavy rain](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/) and the potential for [flash flooding](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/). Local officials in these areas are also preparing for emergency response, urging residents to stay informed via weather updates and heed any evacuation orders if necessary.

The Texas coast isn't a stranger to severe weather, but the early timing of this storm has many on high alert. The [2024 Atlantic hurricane season](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/) officially began on June 1, and experts have warned of a potentially active season ahead. ['The early formation](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/) of Tropical Storm Alberto is a reminder for all residents in hurricane-prone areas to remain vigilant,' said Dr. Carlos Ramirez, a climate scientist at the University of Texas. 'Preparedness and early action can significantly reduce the risks posed by tropical storms and hurricanes.'

Communities along the coast have started setting up emergency shelters in anticipation of possible evacuations. The Red Cross is coordinating with local agencies to ensure these shelters are adequately stocked with supplies and ready to open as the storm approaches. Coastal hospitals are also reviewing emergency plans to handle an influx of patients and potential power outages.

Meanwhile, local businesses are taking preventative measures to minimize storm damage. Many are boarding up windows, reinforcing structures, and relocating valuable inventory inland. [Larry Johnson, owner of a fishing charter business in Galveston](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tropical-storm-warning-hurricane-season-texas-flooding-mexico/), shared his concerns. 'Every storm [season, we go through the same drill](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tropical-storm-warning-hurricane-season-texas-flooding-mexico/), but it's always nerve-wracking. We're moving our boats to safer waters and hoping for the best,' Johnson said.

The broader economic impact of Tropical Storm Alberto could be significant, especially for the region's tourism and fishing industries. Economists predict that prolonged flooding and infrastructure damage could disrupt business operations for weeks. Authorities are encouraging citizens to prioritize safety over economic concerns during these critical days.

As Texas prepares for the impact of [Tropical Storm Alberto](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/), the importance of community support and timely information cannot be overstated. Local news networks and social media platforms will be crucial for maintaining real-time communication among residents and authorities. Staying informed and prepared will be key to ensuring the resilience of Texas communities in the face of [this early season storm](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2024/06/18/tropical-storm-watch-texas-alberto/74131978007/).