TEXAS — Tropical Storm Edouard is making its final approach toward the Texas-Louisiana coastline, putting coastal communities and parts of the Houston region on alert for heavy rain and flooding.

The National Hurricane Center reported Edouard with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph, moving west-northwest at about 8 mph. Forecasters say the storm could strengthen significantly before reaching the northwest Gulf Coast.

The storm is expected to bring 3 to 6 inches of rainfall across the greater Houston area, with isolated locations potentially receiving up to 9 inches. That rainfall could produce flash flooding, particularly in urban and low-lying areas.

Officials are also watching the potential for storm surge and strong coastal winds as Edouard approaches land. The National Hurricane Center has issued marine and tropical cyclone warnings for parts of the region.

The storm is particularly significant for the U.S. energy sector because the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast contains major oil refineries, LNG facilities and petrochemical infrastructure. Companies including Motiva and Exxon have already activated storm preparations, although major facilities were reported to be operating normally.

Residents along the Upper Texas and southwestern Louisiana coast are being urged to monitor official forecasts as conditions can change rapidly before landfall.

Edouard is expected to move inland after reaching the coast, with rainfall and flooding remaining the primary concerns as the system travels across Texas.