Extreme Storm Surge Warning for Baldwin Coastal Area; Life-Threatening Conditions

A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for the Baldwin Coastal area, including Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, by the National Weather Service Mobile AL, effective immediately as of October 9 at 6:53 AM CDT. This warning indicates an extreme, life-threatening situation with immediate action required.

Residents are urged to shelter immediately from life-threatening winds, with peak gusts up to 85 mph expected to begin early this afternoon and last until early Saturday morning. This includes the potential for winds equivalent to a Category 1 or 2 hurricane. All ordered evacuations for storm surge should be complete; evacuees should be in safe shelters. If still in a surge-prone area, move to upper floors to escape rising water. The potential for 4-7 feet above ground of storm surge inundation is forecast through Saturday morning, with flooding greater than 6 feet possible.

A Flood Watch is in effect, with an additional 3-6 inches of rain expected, leading to potential major flooding. Emergency plans should account for extensive rainfall flooding, likely prompting evacuations and rescues. Heed all flood watches and warnings. The situation is also somewhat favorable for a few tornadoes; stay within shelter and be prepared to move to the safest place if a tornado warning is issued.

For evacuation and shelter information, contact Baldwin County EMA at 251-972-6807 or visit www.baldwincountyal.gov/departments/EMA. For storm surge graphics and other storm impacts, visit www.weather.gov/mob.