Life-Threatening Storm Surge Watch Issued for Mobile, Prichard, Theodore

MOBILE, AL – A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Mobile, Prichard, and Theodore, effective immediately. The National Weather Service in Mobile, AL, issued the alert today, October 7, at 4:03 PM CDT, warning of a potential for life-threatening storm surge of 4-7 feet above ground in surge-prone areas. This surge is expected Friday morning until Saturday morning.

Residents in affected areas should prepare for considerable wind damage, with peak gusts up to 50 mph. Potential impacts include extensive roof damage, severe mobile home damage, impassable roads due to debris, and widespread power and communication outages. Large areas of deep inundation are possible, affecting areas from the Dog River up through the Mobile River and tributaries, including downtown Mobile. Structural damage to buildings, with some washing away, is anticipated, and locations may become uninhabitable for an extended period.

Evacuation preparations should be underway. Assemble disaster supplies and know your evacuation route. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave immediately. Failure to heed evacuation orders may result in loss of life.

Additionally, 3-6 inches of rain are forecast, with locally higher amounts, posing a major flooding risk. Emergency plans should include the potential for major flooding from heavy rain, and evacuations and rescues are likely. Heed all flood watches and warnings.

A few tornadoes are also possible. If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. For evacuation and shelter information, contact Mobile County EMA at 251-460-8000 or visit mobilecountyema.gov. For storm surge threat graphics and other storm impacts, visit www.weather.gov/mob.