Convenience Big Store: Here's why Texas needs to watch out for Pacific storms in October

October 13, 2024

This satellite image provided by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Tropical Storm Ileana, left, near the coastal Mexican city of Topolobampo on the eastern side of the Gulf of California, on Sept. 14.

Photo by: (Associated Press)

How Texas weather is affected by the Pacific, not just the Gulf...

Texas still sees tropical moisture during the fall months, but a key difference is that instead of striking the Texas Gulf Coast directly, hurricanes in October often make landfall on the west coast of Mexico, and the remnants of these storms can generate heavy rain and flooding in the southern half of Texas.

Just last month, Tropical Storm Ileana formed off the west coast of Mexico and rolled northward up the coast of Baja California Sur before breaking up in northern Mexico. While this tropical storm didn't cause major concerns for the Lone Star State, this region of the Pacific Ocean will become an area to watch as we move deeper into October.

Here's a look at how and when that has happened here.

📰 Need to Know

FOSTER CARE: The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said U.S. District Judge Janis Jack's contempt ruling and $100,000-per-day fine violates the court's constitutional limits of power over individual states.
3 MONTHS WAIT: Houston Police Department data shows more than 26,800 hit-and-runs were reported in the city in 2023. Of those, 1,166 were assigned to an investigator and 310 were cleared. Houston police say, with staffing logistics, they prioritize hit-and-runs with injuries over those without.
PHOTOS: The Longhorns beat the Sooners 34-3 in the latest edition of the Red River Rivalry, and its first in the SEC.
HISTORIC FIREHOUSE: It's a new era for the former firehouse in Midtown nicknamed Old 7's. The Houston Fire Museum has reopened at Historic Station No. 7 at 2403 Milam Street after four years of renovations.
TODAY'S WEATHER: Houston has seen consistent 90-degree temperatures so far this October, but we should finally see some relief from the heat this week.
FALL BIRDWATCHING: Cullinan Park is perfect for a fall outing. It offers places to walk with the kids, exercise the dogs or stroll in the woods.
HALLOWEEN SHOPPING: If you are looking to expand your search outside of your general Houston costume stores. Check out these Halloween stores ahead of the holiday. Take some inspiration from a Houston-area homeowner's display of safety vest-clad skeletons.

Events at the Chronicle

Promotional image for virtual event on the 2024 election

Photo by: Susan Barber

Event: Will the $4.4B Houston ISD bond really help?

Chronicle readers are invited to a private Zoom on Oct. 16 with Houston Chronicle Editorial Board members. They will discuss key issues and races that Houstonians will be voting on this November, including their recommendation regarding the $4.4 billion HISD bond.

✨ Weekend Fun Awaits ✨

Happy Sunday Funday! Here's a list of fun activities to check out before the weekend is over in and around Houston:

🍽️ Brunch Extravaganza: Visit the brand-new Hash Kitchen in Pearland where legendary "Brunch King," chef Joey Maggiore, brings all-day brunches with disco balls, DJs, a creative Bloody Mary bar, and unique dishes like cannoli doughnuts.

🥾 Trails and Tales: Take advantage of the cooler weather and uncover scenic hiking and biking trails around Houston with our interactive map. A great way to enjoy the city's natural beauty!

🍗 Culinary Heritage: Experience the flavors of Mexican cuisine brought to life by the Gil family at their home in Houston, where they serve private dinners celebrating their culinary traditions with Comatl.

— Lauren Mitchell