SUMMARY: Tropical Storm Barrel is forecasted to become a hurricane before hitting the Texas coast. Residents and officials are preparing through evacuations and securing properties. Acting Governor Dan Patrick expanded the disaster declaration to 121 counties, including parts of North Texas. In Matagorda County, voluntary evacuations are advised, with residents urged to be ready for potential flooding and isolated conditions. Long-time homeowners are securing their homes despite previous storm resilience. Coastal areas can expect high tides and flooding, so officials are stressing the importance of preparation. Fox’s Jade Flurry reports from Matagorda County on these ongoing efforts.

Some Texas communities have issued mandatory evacuation orders before Beryl makes landfall.

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SUMMARY: House Democrat Angie Craig has joined calls for President Biden to exit the presidential race, as many Democrats doubt his capacity to serve another term. They fear his refusal to acknowledge poll warnings could harm down-ballot races, with critical votes expected to be decided by slim margins. Concerns are especially high in the House, where Democrats see a chance to regain control in November. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is set to meet with top House Democrats, while Senator Mark Warner is working to persuade Biden to step aside. Conversely, Senator John Fetterman supports Biden and criticizes calls for his withdrawal.

Another House Democrat is joining the mounting calls for President Biden to leave the presidential race.

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SUMMARY: Barrel, expected to make landfall on the Texas coast Monday, is forecasted to bring heavy rain and flooding to Central Texas, with coastal communities facing severe impacts. The disaster declaration has expanded to 121 Texas counties, including several in Central Texas. Barrel, which has already caused 11 deaths in the Caribbean, is the earliest storm to become a Category 5 hurricane. Residents in Austin are preparing by stocking up on groceries and staying indoors. Austin Emergency Management advises making plans, building emergency kits, knowing neighbors, and staying informed. Rainfall is anticipated from early Monday through early Tuesday.

Beryl, the earliest storm to develop into a Category 5 hurricane, caused 11 deaths and impacted thousands in the Caribbean islands this week. FOX 7 Austin's Tan Radford has more.

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