Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Jefferson County, Prepare for Winds & Flooding

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Jefferson County, including Birmingham and Hoover, as of October 9 at 1:19 AM CDT by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Birmingham, AL. This watch is effective until 9:30 AM UTC on October 9, 2026.

Residents should immediately begin preparations for hazardous winds and moderate flooding. Peak wind gusts of 25-35 mph, potentially reaching 50 mph, are forecast. This could result in limited damage to properties like porches and sheds, broken tree limbs, and some impassable roads. Scattered power and communication outages are possible. Efforts to protect property should now be underway. Complete preparations before winds become hazardous.

A Flood Watch is also in effect, with 1-3 inches of rain expected, and locally higher amounts possible. This could lead to moderate rainfall flooding, prompting evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries may swell, and small streams could overflow. Floodwaters may enter structures and cause hazardous driving conditions. Heed all flood watches and warnings.

The NWS currently indicates that tornadoes are not expected. For more information and preparedness resources, visit ready.gov/hurricanes.