Southeast Texas game wardens are preparing for strong winds and rough waters as a tropical storm watch remains in effect because of Bertha, urging anyone planning to be on the water to take extra precautions.
Captain Ryan Hall with the Texas Parks and Wildlife game warden Beaumont Law Enforcement Office said conditions can become dangerous even if heavy rain is not expected.
“Right now, they’re not calling for a lot of rain. But on the water, you know, waves along the beach, rip currents, things like that can be very dangerous for folks that are getting out and enjoying the hot weather,” Hall said.
People were still fishing and boating, but some said they were already feeling the effects. Joe Kirbow, who went fishing on his boat early in the morning, said, “It was rough. A little windy. Tides was pretty rough. Call it a little bit of trial and, plan on maybe if weather is good, we’ll come back tomorrow and try it again.”
Others said they planned to stay off the water as the storm approaches. Nick Mitchell, on a fishing trip with his family, said, “Well that is reason why we came out today, you know? So, just case of storm do here to something like that. There we get our little fishing trip in and, you know, and lay low for the storm.”
Hall said beach conditions are a major concern, particularly for people who may not be strong swimmers.
“The biggest issue, probably along the beaches, whether it be McFadden beach or, Sea Room State Park folks that are enjoying the beaches. This kind of weather can cause rip currents. Which folks that are not strong swimmers can get can get sucked out. And unfortunately, we can have a tragedy,” Hall said.
He also urged people to stay in shallow waters and be wary of rip tides and strong currents at the beach.
Hall said game wardens are preparing in case rescues are needed.
“Making sure that all of our rescue boats are, fueled up and batteries are charged, and and we’ve got folks ready to go in case we need. They need help,” Hall said.
Hall encouraged people to monitor the weather closely and, if heading out on a boat, to make sure they have safety equipment with them.