Texas port city, economic hub, eighth-largest in the state
Arthur has formed as the first named storm of the Atlantic season and tracks toward the Texas-Louisiana coast. Forecasters warn of life-threatening flash flooding across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Florida, with rainfall totals from 5 to 10 inches and isolated totals near 20 inches through Friday. Residents are deploying sandbags, preparing shelters, and monitoring potential reformation off the East Coast.
The Giants-Braves three-game series was washed out by a tropical storm, with games postponed and a makeup date set for Aug. 31 in Atlanta. The Giants face a heavy travel and pitching load as they adjust rotations and weather the stormy stretch.
Solar generation has surpassed coal in the US grid, led by rooftop and utility-scale projects, signaling a growing dominance of renewables. The Energy Information Administration data show renewables outpacing coal in total power delivery, with solar near the gap but not yet yearly total. The trend continues as demand climbs and permitting hurdles persist.
John Merrone has pleaded guilty in Brooklyn federal court to five counts, admitting to spiking a cadet’s drink and raping her aboard the Liberty Glory in 2019. Prosecutors say additional accusers are to testify; sentencing is set for December and could reach life in prison.
Torrential rain has driven dangerous floods across Texas Hill Country for a third day, triggering rescues and road washouts. Authorities warn waters will continue to rise, with last year’s deadly floods weighing on response efforts.
Texas Governor has ordered audits of data-center projects seeking grid connections. ERCOT and the Public Utility Commission are reviewing more than 1,800 interconnection requests, the vast majority from data centers. The move aims to verify power and water use, tax incentives and community impacts, and could deny connections to projects that do not comply.