The Capital Weather Gang explains that three key elements combine to create a rain-laden storm like Harvey: the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, quick hurricane winds and a weak late-summer jetstream. Farther north in Central Texas, where the Hill Country meets the plains, the region has been nicknamed “Flash Flood Alley” because its topography makes it susceptible to localized flooding. In Corpus Christi, power outages affected wastewater and drinking-water treatment facilities, forcing residents into a water-boil advisory. The storms strong winds downed live power lines, and officials cautioned residents navigating through the streets. City officials said they cannot fully assess the damage until later.

Source: Washington Post August 27, 2017 05:24 UTC