Tropical Storm Warning Issued for George County; Prepare for High Winds

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for George County, including Lucedale, as of 7:27 AM CDT today, October 9, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile AL. Residents are advised to move to safe shelter immediately as hazardous winds are anticipated.

The NWS forecasts peak winds of 20-30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. There is a potential for winds reaching 39 to 57 mph. Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes is possible. Unsecured lightweight objects may be blown about. Some large tree limbs may break, and a few trees could snap or uproot, particularly where trees are shallow-rooted. Expect scattered power and communications outages, and some roads may become impassable due to debris.

While no storm surge inundation is expected, moderate flooding from heavy rain is a significant concern, with around 1 inch of rainfall forecasted. This may lead to evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries could overflow, and small streams, creeks, canals, and ditches may flood. Floodwaters could enter some structures, and driving conditions may become hazardous with potential road and bridge closures. Tornadoes are not expected.

This warning is effective immediately and expires at 3:30 PM UTC (10:30 AM CDT) today. For local information, contact George County EMA at 601-947-7557 or visit www.facebook.com/GeorgeCountyMsEmergencyManagement. For storm surge graphics and other impacts, visit www.weather.gov/mob.