The term "Imelda hurricane" can refer to two related but distinct contexts:
- Tropical Storm Imelda of 2019: This was a tropical cyclone that caused devastating flooding in southeast Texas. It was the fourth-wettest storm on record in Texas, dropping over 43 inches of rain in some areas and causing around $5 billion in damages. It made landfall near Freeport, Texas, with sustained winds of 40-45 mph and a central pressure of about 1003 millibars. Though classified as a tropical storm, it produced historic flood events and significant damage in Texas and surrounding states before dissipating in late September 2019.
- Upcoming Tropical System Named Imelda in 2025: Currently, as of late September 2025, meteorologists are monitoring a developing tropical system expected to be named Imelda. It is forecast to strengthen into a tropical storm and possibly a Category 1 or 2 hurricane as it approaches the southeastern US coast, with potential impacts in the Carolinas and Georgia. It may bring heavy rainfall, gusty winds, storm surge, and flooding, especially along the coast and near the Bahamas. Its trajectory and interaction with another hurricane, Humberto, are still being tracked, with some predictions indicating landfall near the Carolinas early next week, while others suggest it might stay offshore or be absorbed by Humberto.
In summary, "Imelda" can refer to both the notable 2019 flooding tropical storm in Texas and this newly developing 2025 tropical cyclone currently threatening the southeastern United States. The 2019 event was historic for its rainfall and flooding in Texas, while the 2025 system is still evolving with uncertain but potentially severe impacts ahead.
