Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Much of Central Alabama

Residents across Central Alabama should finalize storm preparations immediately as a Tropical Storm Warning is now in effect for numerous counties, including Autauga, Barbour, Bibb, Bullock, Chambers, Chilton, Clay, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Jefferson, Lamar, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Marion, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Randolph, Russell, Shelby, St. Clair, Sumter, Talladega, Tallapoosa, Tuscaloosa, Walker, and Winston. The National Weather Service in Birmingham, AL, issued this alert at 10:23 AM CDT on October 9th. Hurricane Isaias is expected to make landfall this evening on the Northern Gulf Coast.

Expect widespread downed trees and power lines due to wind gusts of 50 to 60+ mph late tonight through Saturday. Rainfall of 1.5 to 4 inches, with localized amounts up to 5 inches, could lead to flash flooding. Isolated tornadoes are possible, especially east of Interstate 65. Ensure your emergency plan and supplies kit are ready. If you are in a vulnerable location, such as near large trees, in a mobile home, or a flood-prone area, plan to move to safe shelter. Monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather Radio, and local news for updates. The next local statement is expected around 4 PM CDT.