Life-Threatening Storm Surge and Winds Expected in Southern Hancock

A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for Southern Hancock, including Kiln, Pearlington, Bay St. Louis, Diamondhead, and Waveland, by the National Weather Service New Orleans/Baton Rouge. This warning, issued October 7 at 9:59 PM CDT, indicates a danger of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland from the coastline within the next 36 hours. A Tropical Storm Warning is also in effect for the same area, meaning tropical storm-force winds are expected within the next 36 hours.

Residents in affected areas should prepare immediately. Evacuation efforts and flood preparations must be completed before conditions become unsafe. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave immediately to avoid being cut off from emergency services. The storm surge threat is significant, with a potential for 3-5 feet above ground inundation from Friday morning until Saturday morning. This could lead to damage to buildings, weakened or washed-out escape routes, and major beach erosion.

Peak wind forecasts are 20-30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph, with a potential for winds of 39 to 57 mph. Efforts to protect property should be underway now, as limited wind damage to porches, awnings, sheds, and mobile homes is possible, along with scattered power outages. Rainfall of 1-3 inches is expected, with little to no flood risk. Tornadoes are not expected. For more information and updates, visit msema.org.