Tropical Storm Bertha Weakens Ahead of Houston, Energy Company Prepares for Potential Impact
Tropical Storm Bertha is projected to weaken and dissipate before reaching the Houston area, likely arriving as a tropical depression or post-tropical low pressure system by Friday. Despite the storm's diminished threat, CenterPoint Energy has activated its emergency operations center…
Houston, TX, July 22, 2026 —
Tropical Storm Bertha is expected to significantly weaken before reaching the Houston metropolitan area, with forecasters now anticipating its arrival by Friday as either a tropical depression or a post-tropical low pressure system. The storm, which had previously posed a more significant threat, is projected to dissipate substantially over the coming days.
Despite the reduced intensity of the storm, CenterPoint Energy has taken a proactive stance by activating its emergency operations center. The energy provider has also mobilized personnel as a precautionary measure. This action is in response to the potential for severe weather conditions and possible power outages that could result from predicted wind gusts associated with the storm’s passage.
The activation of the emergency operations center allows CenterPoint Energy to coordinate its response efforts and ensure that resources are in place to address any disruptions. Mobilizing personnel ahead of the storm’s arrival is intended to facilitate a quicker response to any necessary repairs or restoration of services.
While Bertha’s direct impact is now projected to be less severe than initially feared, officials are still advising residents to remain aware of weather updates and to prepare for potential localized impacts. The focus of the preparedness efforts by CenterPoint Energy highlights the unpredictability of weather systems and the importance of readiness even when forecasts indicate a diminished threat.
Story summarized from the original created by April Towery on www.houstonpress.com, see more information here.
