Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Jefferson County, Prepare for Winds & Flooding

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Jefferson County, including Birmingham and Hoover, by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Birmingham, AL, effective Thursday, October 9, 2026, at 4:08 AM CDT. Residents should plan for hazardous winds and potential moderate flooding.

Equivalent Tropical Storm force winds are expected to begin early Saturday morning and continue through Saturday morning, with peak gusts up to 55 mph. Prepare for limited wind damage, including potential harm to porches, awnings, carports, and sheds, as well as broken tree limbs and scattered power outages. 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, with 1-3 inches of rain expected, and locally higher amounts possible. This could lead to moderate rainfall flooding, prompting evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries may swell, and small streams could overflow. Heed all flood watches and warnings, as failure to take action may result in serious injury or loss of life. Consider protective actions if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding.

Tornadoes are not expected at this time. For more information and to prepare, visit ready.gov/hurricanes.