Although Tropical Storm Arlene is expected to make landfall Thursday along the Mexican coastline, bands of tropical showers began moving into coastal Cameron County around 3:00 p.m. Wednesday.
Cameron County officials have already closed Beach Access 5 and 6 as well as Andy Bowie Park on South Padre Island to traffic due to high surf conditions.
Wave heights are forecast to reach from 6 to 10 feet this evening with minor coastal flooding possible.
Swimmers and boaters are being advised by the National Weather Service to avoid the water until after Tropical Storm Arlene makes landfall in Central Mexico on Thursday.
The first band of rain has already hit Cameron County.
Some of the those showers have produced heavy downpours.
More of the same is still possible with isolated thunderstorms and brief gusty winds.
While the majority of these showers have been light to moderate, there is a potential for severe weather with plenty of tropical moisture to power it.
Showers remain in the forecast through this weekend, however the best shot at rain will be Wednesday night through Thursday.
Potential rainfall is forecast to measure from 1 to 3 inches in general with isolated amounts around 3 to 5 inches.
The majority of the rain is expected along the Rio Grande and south of the border.
RAW VIDEO: Tropical Storm Arlene Approaches South Padre Island
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