Life-Threatening Storm Surge and Hurricane-Force Winds Expected for Baldwin Coastal Areas

BALDWIN COASTAL — Residents in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan must immediately prepare for life-threatening conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile, AL has issued a Storm Surge Watch effective October 7 at 4:03 PM CDT, indicating the potential for a storm surge greater than 6 feet above ground and hurricane-force winds.

Evacuation preparations are critically underway. If evacuation orders are issued for your area, you must leave. Failure to evacuate could result in loss of life. The NWS forecasts peak storm surge inundation of 4-7 feet above ground, with a window of concern from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

Strong Tropical Storm force winds are expected from Friday afternoon until early Saturday morning, with peak gusts up to 95 mph. Potential exists for sustained winds of 74 to 110 mph. Rigorously complete preparations now before hazardous winds arrive. Extensive damage to roofs, mobile homes, and trees is possible, leading to widespread power and communication outages. Some areas may be uninhabitable for weeks.

Heavy rainfall of 4-8 inches is expected, with local higher amounts, potentially leading to major flooding. Heed all flood watches and warnings. The NWS also notes a potential for a few tornadoes. If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly.

For evacuation and shelter information, contact Baldwin County EMA at 251-972-6807 or visit baldwincountyal.gov/departments/EMA. For storm surge threat graphics and other impacts, visit weather.gov/mob. This alert expires October 8, 2026, at 12:15 AM UTC.