Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Monroe: Prepare for Severe Winds & Flooding

MONROE COUNTY, AL — A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Monroe County, including Homewood and Monroeville, effective October 8 at 4:14 AM CDT by the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile, AL. This watch indicates that tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 48 hours.

Residents should prepare for significant impacts. Equivalent Tropical Storm force winds of 40-50 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph, are expected from Friday evening until Saturday morning. There is potential for dangerous wind gusts of 58 to 73 mph. Property protection efforts should be underway, as significant wind damage is possible to roofing, siding, and other structures. Large trees may snap or uproot, and roads could become impassable due to debris. Scattered power and communication outages are also expected. Complete all preparations before winds become hazardous.

Heavy rainfall of 2-4 inches, with locally higher amounts, is forecasted, posing a moderate flooding threat. Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries could swell, and small streams may overflow. Be aware of rapid inundation in low-lying areas, and hazardous driving conditions. Heed any flood watches and warnings, as failure to take action may result in serious injury or loss of life.

A few tornadoes are also possible. If your shelter is vulnerable, prepare to relocate to a safer location. If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. Tornadoes can cause localized damage, power outages, and disrupt emergency plans.

For local information, contact Monroe County EMA at 251-743-3259 or visit www.facebook.com/monroeema. For storm impacts, refer to NWS Mobile at www.weather.gov/mob. This watch is effective until October 8, 2026, 12:15 PM UTC.