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

Colquitt County residents, particularly those in Moultrie, should immediately begin preparations for potential impacts from a Tropical Storm Watch issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL. The watch is effective October 8 at 5:22 PM EDT and expires October 9 at 1:30 AM UTC.

A Flood Watch is also in effect. Prepare for hazardous wind of equivalent tropical storm force, with peak gusts up to 35 mph. Efforts to protect property should now be underway to minimize limited damage to porches, awnings, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Be aware of potential power and communications outages, and impassable roads due to debris.

Expect 3-6 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts, posing a potential for moderate flooding. Emergency plans should include the possibility of evacuations and rescues. Heed any flood watches and warnings; failure to act may result in serious injury or loss of life. Rivers and tributaries may overspill their banks, and floodwaters could enter structures. Hazardous driving conditions are expected.

The situation is 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 tornado warning is issued, shelter quickly. Tornadoes can cause significant damage, power loss, and communications failures. For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee and Georgia Emergency Management Agency.