Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Clay County: Prepare for Severe Weather

Clay County residents, prepare for severe weather. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Clay County, including Ashland, effective immediately as of October 8 at 7:10 PM CDT by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Birmingham, AL. This watch remains in effect until October 9, 2026, at 3:15 AM UTC.

Residents should plan for hazardous winds of 39 to 57 mph, with peak gusts up to 45 mph. Efforts to protect property should be underway now. Potential impacts include damage to porches, sheds, unanchored mobile homes, and fallen tree limbs. Scattered power outages are possible.

A Flood Watch is also in effect. Expect 1-3 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts, posing a moderate flooding risk. Emergency plans should include potential evacuations and rescues. Heed all flood watches and warnings. Driving conditions may become hazardous, and some road closures are possible.

The NWS also indicates a favorable situation for tornadoes, with a potential for several, some possibly intense. Those in manufactured homes or on boats should prepare to relocate to safe shelter. Listen for tornado watches and warnings and be ready to shelter quickly. For more information and preparedness resources, visit ready.gov/hurricanes.