Photo: CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP / Getty Images
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring a weather system over northeastern Mexico that could become the first named tropical storm of the 2026 season. The disturbance, currently known as Invest 90L, has a 50% chance of developing into a tropical depression or storm as it moves over the Gulf of America late Tuesday (June 16) or Wednesday (June 17).
If the system strengthens into a tropical storm, it will be named Arthur. The NHC warns that regardless of whether it becomes a tropical storm, the Gulf Coast should brace for heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and gusty winds. The areas most at risk include eastern and southern Texas, Louisiana, and parts of Mississippi.
Meteorologist Matt Lanza noted that this setup could bring the most significant rainfall to the region since 2024, with some areas potentially receiving over 15 inches of rain. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for over 20 million people, including those in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio.
As the system moves northeastward, it could re-emerge over the Gulf, where environmental conditions may support further development. The NHC may issue tropical storm watches or warnings as early as Tuesday. Residents along the Gulf Coast are advised to prepare for potential flooding and power outages due to gusty winds.
AccuWeather reports that the disturbance's moisture can be traced back to Tropical Storm Cristina, which recently dissipated in the eastern Pacific Ocean. This moisture, combined with the current weather system, is expected to enhance rainfall across the region.