MAPPED: Tropical Storm Arthur Takes Shape as Houston Weather Intensifies and Homeowners Prepare for Flash Flooding

The National Hurricane Center has issued tropical storm watches for the northwestern Gulf Coast from Sargent, TX, to Morgan City, LA, starting on Wednesday, June 17.

Dangerous, flood-inducing rainfall is expected to persist through Friday throughout much of the Deep South, as a low-pressure system developed into Tropical Storm Arthur near these coastal regions, according to The Weather Channel. 

With the storm in full swing, the South is poised for a deep soak of rain over the next few days, especially Houston, TX. 

Tracking Tropical Storm Arthur 

As of the 10 a.m. advisory from the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Arthur officially became the first storm of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.

Meteorologists clocked wind gusts up to 45 mph lashing through Texas and the National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning for the Houston metro area.

The FOX Forecast Center warns that the tropical downpours are dropping water at a rate of 2 to 3 inches per hour, which puts the Portugal vs. DR Congo FIFA World Game in some jeopardy. 

Tuesday's weather actually forced FIFA Fan Fest Houston to delay opening until 6:30 p.m. At the time, organizers assured fans they are prepared if conditions worsen toward game time. 

“FIFA will continue to monitor conditions in real time and stands ready to apply established contingency protocols should extreme weather events occur,” their statement said, in part. 

Meanwhile, a Tropical Storm Warning remains in place for the Louisiana coast from Sabine Pass to Morgan City, where tropical storm conditions are expected within the next 12 to 24 hours, according to NHC latest update. 

Thankfully, the system's close proximity to land will continue to limit its strength before the center moves inland over southwestern Louisiana tonight.

Regardless, flash flood warnings are in place for many locations in the Deep South. 

Preparing your home for flash flooding

Homeowners tend to have a bit of warning when a storm is on its way, but very little time to act when flash floods occur. 

The best advice is to be proactive if you know your home is in a flood zone or if you live somewhere where torrential rain is forecasted. 

The best place to start is your basement, which will be ground zero for flooding in your home. Take stock of your appliances and prepare them to withstand the flood waters. 

“To prepare household appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers for potential floods, homeowners should elevate them using stands or platforms,” suggests Ron Shimek, president of Mr. Appliance.

Start by unplugging and disconnecting your appliances and devices from power sources and water and drainage lines. That will make them easier to elevate.

While doing this, it’s a good idea to snap a few photos of the serial numbers on each machine. This will save you time if you need to make an insurance claim for damage later.

Another way that water will too often make its way into the home during a flood is via unsealed cracks in your home, so if you can take stock before the rains, you’ll be better served. 

Check your gutters, remove screens on your windows and doors to inspect frames for any gaps, and invest in some caulk or waterproof duct tape to fill them in.