Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Colquitt County: Prepare for Winds, Flooding, Tornadoes

Colquitt County, including Moultrie, is now under a Tropical Storm Watch, issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee, FL, as of October 8 at 11:06 AM EDT. This means tropical storm-force winds are possible within the next 48 hours. The Watch is effective until 7:15 PM UTC today.

Residents should plan for hazardous winds of 39 to 57 mph. Efforts to protect property should be underway immediately. Act now to complete preparations before hazardous winds arrive. Potential impacts include damage to lightweight structures, broken tree limbs, some impassable roads from debris, and scattered power outages.

A Flood Watch is also in effect, with 1-3 inches of rain expected, and locally higher amounts. Emergency plans should include the potential for moderate flooding. Consider protective actions if you are in a flood-vulnerable area and heed all flood watches and warnings. Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt evacuations and rescues, with swollen rivers and localized inundation.

The situation is also favorable for several tornadoes, with a few possibly intense. Those in manufactured homes or on boats should prepare to relocate to safe shelter. Listen for tornado watches and warnings; if a warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. Potential impacts include significant damage, power loss, and communication failures.

For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee and Georgia Emergency Management Agency.