Tropical storm warning for NC Outer Banks as Irma may soon form

As Tropical Storm Harvey continues to drop record rainfall on south east Texas, forecasters are still looking for terms to describe it.

A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area, in this case within the next 24 to 36 hours. Look for another overcast day with only a slight chance of an isolated sprinkle or two highs near 84 and east winds around 5 miles per hour.

The storm is forecast to begin moving slowly north before accelerating out to sea and strengthening a little more. Because of its close proximity to land, this designation will allow the National Weather Service to issue tropical storm watches before the disturbance reaches tropical storm strength.

Meteorologists say an east to northeast wind is forecast to increase during the day today, but speeds should only be about 10 to 15 miles per hour in the Lehigh Valley. Minor damage to weak structures, downed trees and power lines are possible with this storm. The feature was originally named Invest 92L after it moved off Africa, just trailing the original incarnation of Tropical Strom Harvey.

Heitkamp says the weather service will use the information gathered from this storm to improve their forecast and warning procedures.

A new tropical storm is likely to form over the warm waters of the Atlantic northeast of Jacksonville by Monday morning.

The winds will cause seas and surf to build along much of the Atlantic Seaboard.

In addition to the potential for flooding, the system is anticipated to bring strong winds, and rough seas, leading to rip currents and risky conditions for those on the water.

A late day cold front could spark a shower or thunderstorm in the afternoon, but a large part of the day should remain dry and rain-free.

Houston had its rainiest day on record Saturday with over 16 inches then followed it up with its fifth rainiest day on record Sunday with 8 inches, and there look to be 3-5 days of intermittent heavy rain ahead.