Storm Surge Watch Issued for Southern Harrison County

A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Southern Harrison County, including Gulfport, Biloxi, Pass Christian, and Long Beach, effective immediately. The National Weather Service in New Orleans, LA, issued the watch today, October 7, at 10:12 AM CDT. Life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland from the coastline is possible within the next 48 hours, with potential storm surge flooding of 3-5 feet above ground in surge-prone areas. The window of concern for this surge is from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

Residents in these areas should plan for life-threatening storm surge flooding and begin preparations now. Assemble disaster supplies and know your evacuation route. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave immediately; failure to do so may result in loss of life. Moderate flooding from heavy rain (2-4 inches with locally higher amounts) is also anticipated, and emergency plans should account for this. A Hurricane Watch is also in effect, indicating hurricane-force winds are possible within the next 48 hours. Peak wind forecasts are 25-35 mph with gusts to 40 mph, but potential for winds of 58 to 73 mph exists. Plan for dangerous wind and complete preparations before winds become hazardous. A few tornadoes are also possible. For more information, visit msema.org.