Columbus Under Tropical Storm Watch: Prepare for High Winds, Flooding, Tornadoes
A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Muscogee County, including Columbus, effective October 8 at 2:52 PM EDT, with residents urged to prepare for high winds, moderate flooding, and the potential for tornadoes. The watch expires at 11:00 PM UTC.
COLUMBUS, GA – The National Weather Service (NWS) Peachtree City has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Muscogee County, including Columbus, effective immediately as of October 8 at 2:52 PM EDT. Residents are urged to complete preparations now before hazardous wind conditions arrive.
The NWS forecasts peak winds of 10-20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph, with the potential for sustained winds of 39 to 57 mph. Impacts could include damage to sheds, awnings, and unanchored mobile homes, along with broken tree limbs and some downed trees. Hazardous driving conditions are possible on bridges and elevated roadways, and scattered power outages are expected.
A Flood Watch is also in effect, with 1-3 inches of rain expected, and locally higher amounts possible. This could lead to moderate flooding, affecting rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas. Evacuations and rescues are possible, and flood waters may enter some structures. Heed all flood watches and warnings.
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 and be ready to shelter quickly if one is issued. Tornadoes can cause significant damage, power loss, and communications failures.
The Tropical Storm Watch expires at 11:00 PM UTC on October 8. For more information, visit ready.gov/hurricanes or weather.gov/atlanta.
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