Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Coffee County: Prepare for Dangerous Winds, Flooding

COFFEE COUNTY, AL – A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Coffee County, including Enterprise and Elba, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL, effective today, October 7, at 4:52 PM EDT. This watch means tropical storm-force winds are possible within the next 48 hours.

Residents should act now to complete preparations before hazardous winds begin. The NWS forecasts peak winds of 20-30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph, but warns of potential for winds between 58 to 73 mph. Significant wind damage is possible, including damage to roofing, siding, mobile homes, and trees. Roads may become impassable due to debris, and scattered power and communication outages are expected. Efforts to protect life and property should be underway.

Major flooding rain is also a significant threat, with 3-6 inches of rainfall and locally higher amounts predicted. Emergency plans should include the potential for major flooding, which could lead to evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries may overflow, and flood waters could impact structures and make roads impassable. Heed all flood watches and warnings.

Tornadoes are not expected, though showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds may still occur. For more information and updates, visit the NWS Tallahassee website at www.weather.gov/tallahassee, the Alabama Emergency Management Agency at ema.alabama.gov, or Coffee County Emergency Management at coffeecounty.us/239/Emergency-Management. This watch is set to expire on October 8, 2026, at 1:00 AM UTC.