Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Southern Harrison; Prepare Now

Southern Harrison residents, including Gulfport, Biloxi, Pass Christian, and Long Beach, must take immediate action as a Tropical Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) in New Orleans, effective October 7 at 9:59 PM CDT. This warning indicates that tropical storm-force winds are expected within the next 36 hours.

A Storm Surge Warning is also in effect, meaning life-threatening inundation of 3-5 feet above ground is possible from Friday morning until Saturday morning. Evacuation efforts and flood preparations should be completed soon. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave immediately to avoid being cut off from emergency services.

Peak winds are forecast between 25-35 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph, but the NWS warns of the potential for winds reaching 58 to 73 mph. This could lead to significant damage to roofing, siding, and mobile homes, as well as several large trees snapping or uprooting. Roads may become impassable due to debris, and scattered power and communications outages are likely. Efforts to protect life and property should now be underway; complete preparations before hazardous winds begin.

Additionally, 2-4 inches of rainfall, with localized higher amounts, are expected, posing a moderate flooding risk. Rivers and tributaries may swell, and low-lying areas could experience rapid inundation. Heed any flood watches and warnings. Tornadoes are not expected at this time. For more information, visit www.msema.org.