GALVESTON COUNTY, Texas — Galveston County is the latest area now under a disaster declaration ahead of Beryl's expected landfall along the Texas Gulf Coast.
County officials told KHOU 11's Katiera Winfrey they are anticipating widespread threats from wind, rain and coastal flooding.
A voluntary evacuation has been issued for the West End where low-lying areas aren't protected by the seawall. There is no mandatory evacuation order for the island.
In a 3 p.m. news conference on Sunday, Mayor Craig Brown said tropical storm force winds are likely with a storm surge of 5 to 7 feet.
Authorities are urging caution ahead of Beryl's anticipated landfall Monday morning between Port O’Conner and Matagorda.
"There’s no question we’re going to feel something which is different than the forecast five days ago. That’s why we always want people to pay attention to credible news sources," said Galveston County Judge Mark Henry.
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Henry said they've been monitoring Beryl's path and expect it to strengthen as it approaches the Texas coast.
"That’s going to cause impacts here in Galveston County. We’re going to have rip currents that are pretty significant. We’re going to have flooding."
Right now, the exact measure of Beryl’s impact isn't clear, but Henry said expect winds, expect flooding from storm surge and fresh water.
He said with flooding concerns, those on Boliver should be on higher alert. The Ferry will likely be shut down and water may rise over Highway 87.
"Take it seriously hurricanes are not for planning parties, therefore paying attention and having good plan," said Henry.