Flood Watch issued as remnants of Invest 98L bring potential heavy rainfall west of San Antonio
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for several counties just west of Bexar County through Saturday evening. Forecasters warn that isolated thunderstorms in the area could produce rainfall rates of 3 inches per hour, with total rainfall amounts in the 2 to 3 inch range, and the possibility of higher amounts in a narrow corridor.
The setup centers on the remnant mid-level circulation of Invest 98L, which is moving north tonight and already triggering showers in the southern tier counties. As this system tracks west of Bexar County through noon Saturday, the heaviest rain is expected to stay in that watch area.
Key points:
– Timing: Heaviest rainfall potential into Saturday morning, then a diminishing risk as the system moves north.
– Rain amounts: High-end totals of 2 to 3 inches are possible within the watch area, with isolated higher amounts and rainfall rates potentially reaching 3 inches per hour.
– Coverage: The flood risk is focused on a narrow zone along the track of the mid-level circulation; areas east and west of this zone should see considerably less rain or possibly none.
– Later Saturday: Skies become partly sunny with only a 20% chance of isolated showers as the system moves north.
What to do:
– Monitor local forecasts and any new warnings from the National Weather Service.
– If you live in flood-prone areas, stay alert for rapid changes in water levels, and avoid driving through flooded roadways.
– Keep vehicles and valuables in safe, elevated locations if flooding becomes likely, and have emergency plans ready in case of road closures or power outages.
Summary:
A Flood Watch is in effect west of San Antonio through Saturday evening due to the remnant of Invest 98L bringing the potential for heavy rainfall in a focused corridor. While rain is likely to taper later Saturday, residents should stay tuned for updates and be prepared for isolated strong downpours.
Positive note:
Once the system moves north, drier, partly sunny conditions are expected, offering a welcome break after the coastal rain risk.