Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Shelby County: Prepare for High Winds & Flooding

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Shelby County, effective immediately as of October 9 at 4:20 PM CDT by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Birmingham, AL. This warning affects Columbiana, Pelham, and Alabaster, and is set to expire on October 10 at 12:30 AM UTC.

Residents should prepare for hazardous wind conditions, with peak gusts up to 65 mph expected from early Saturday morning until Saturday morning. Unanchored mobile and manufactured homes, sheds, carports, and awnings are vulnerable to damage. Expect downed tree limbs, potential uprooted trees, and possible impassable roads due to debris. Scattered power and communications outages are possible. All remaining efforts to protect property should be completed as soon as possible. Move to safe shelter before winds become hazardous.

A Flood Watch is also in effect. An additional 2-4 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts, is forecasted. Moderate rainfall flooding may lead to evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries could swell, and small streams may overflow. Floodwaters could enter some structures. Heed all flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action may result in serious injury or loss of life. Tornadoes are not expected, according to the NWS.

For more information, visit ready.gov/hurricanes.