Storm Surge Warning for Mobile Central: Prepare for Extreme Conditions

MOBILE CENTRAL – Residents in Mobile, Prichard, and Theodore are urged to take immediate action as a Storm Surge Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service Mobile AL, effective October 7 at 9:53 PM CDT. Life-threatening storm surge flooding of greater than 6 feet above ground is possible from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

A Hurricane Warning indicates hurricane-force winds are expected within 36 hours. Peak wind gusts of up to 50 mph are forecast, with potential for winds of 74 to 110 mph. Plan for life-threatening wind of equivalent Category 1 or 2 hurricane force. Prepare for considerable wind damage, including roof damage to sturdy buildings and severe damage to mobile homes. Power and communications outages are likely.

Evacuation efforts for storm surge should be completed now. Leave immediately if evacuation orders are given to avoid being cut off. Large areas of deep inundation are expected, particularly from the Dog River up through the Mobile River and tributaries, including downtown Mobile. Near-shore escape routes, such as the US 90 Causeway, may be washed out or severely flooded.

Additional rainfall of 3-6 inches is expected, with major flooding likely. Heed any flood watches and warnings. The situation is also favorable for a few tornadoes. 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 NWS Mobile at www.weather.gov/mob.