Tropical Storm Alberto, the first named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, made landfall in Mexico causing severe flooding, heavy rains, and three fatalities, with Texas and northeastern Mexico under severe weather advisories.

The storm, which brought up to 20 inches of rain to parts of Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas in Mexico, has resulted in three reported deaths and significant flooding. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster for 51 counties, mobilizing the National Guard in response. With severe weather advisories in place, both Texas and northeastern Mexico brace for continued impacts including potential life-threatening mudslides, coastal flooding, and storm surge up to 4 feet along the southern Texas coast.

Tropical Storm Alberto's impact was felt most heavily in northeastern Mexico, particularly in the states of Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas. These areas received the highest rainfall totals, with some locations recording up to 20 inches of rain. The deluge has already resulted in life-threatening flooding and mudslides, complicating the response efforts by local authorities.

Northern Mexico, which had been grappling with severe drought conditions before the storm, is now experiencing dramatic changes in weather. While the heavy rainfall is hoped to provide some relief from the prolonged drought, the immediate repercussions include flooding and infrastructure damage, necessitating urgent responses from emergency services.

In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 51 counties and activated three platoons of the Texas National Guard to aid in the response and relief efforts. The state is bracing for rainfall totals ranging from 4 to 8 inches, with certain regions in South Texas potentially seeing up to 12 inches. This has raised concerns about significant flooding, particularly in low-lying and coastal areas.

One of the most affected areas in Texas includes Surfside Beach, where significant flooding has been reported. Roads are underwater, hampering movement and access to the area. The flooding has impacted residents and local authorities who are working around the clock to provide assistance and mitigate damage.

Along the Texas coast, areas from Galveston to Corpus Christi observed significant coastal flooding and storm surge, with water levels rising as high as 4 feet. This has not only affected residential areas but also posed risks to coastal infrastructures such as bridges and roads. Residents in these areas have been advised to stay clear of the surge-prone zones and follow safety instructions.

Adding to the challenges, a Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for the northeastern coast of Mexico, south of the mouth of the Rio Grande to Tecolutla. The warning outlines the potential for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and further flooding, urging residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

The ramifications of Alberto are further evidenced by the reported fatalities in Nuevo Leon, Mexico. Three individuals lost their lives due to the storm. Local authorities are continuing to assess the damage and search for any additional casualties or missing persons.

Despite the severity of the storm, forecasters predict that Tropical Storm Alberto will rapidly weaken as it moves further inland into Mexico. The weakening will likely reduce the wind speeds and lessen rain intensity over time, but the residual effects of the storm - particularly in terms of flooding and infrastructure damage - are expected to linger for days.

Communities in both Texas and Mexico are actively coordinating with national and local agencies to address the ongoing risks posed by Alberto. Rescue operations, evacuation procedures, and relief distribution are being prioritized to assist those affected by the storm.

Meteorologists continue to monitor the storm's progression, providing critical updates to ensure that residents stay informed and can take necessary actions. Officials have emphasized the importance of adhering to weather advisories and emergency directives to navigate the aftermath safely.