Hurricane Beryl intensified as it approached the Texas coast on Sunday, prompting the closure of major oil ports, flight cancellations, and warnings of potential fatalities, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC). Beryl, the earliest recorded Category 5 hurricane, had previously caused significant damage in Jamaica, Grenada, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, resulting in at least 11 deaths and widespread destruction. After weakening, Beryl regained strength, becoming a Category 1 hurricane as it traversed the warm Gulf of Mexico waters. It is expected to potentially reach Category 2 status upon landfall near Houston on Monday.

The NHC's latest advisory indicates further strengthening is anticipated before Beryl makes landfall on the Texas coast. Acting Governor Patrick declared 120 counties as disaster areas in anticipation of the storm, emphasizing that it could be deadly for those in its direct path. Consequently, Houston's school systems and others in the area announced closures, while airlines canceled hundreds of flights and some beach towns issued evacuation orders.

The impending storm has led to the closure of major oil-shipping ports in Corpus Christi, Galveston, and Houston, which may disrupt crude oil exports, refinery shipments, and motor fuel supplies. Although most offshore oil and gas production in the northern Gulf lies east of Beryl's projected path, companies like Shell and Chevron evacuated personnel from Gulf of Mexico production platforms. Citgo Petroleum Corp plans to operate its Corpus Christi refinery at minimal production as the storm advances, and Gibson Energy, managing a large terminal in Corpus Christi, stated that operations continue but will adjust based on updated forecasts.