Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Quitman and Georgetown Areas

QUITMAN, GA – Residents in Quitman and Georgetown are under a Tropical Storm Warning, effective immediately as of October 9 at 11:05 AM EDT. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Tallahassee, FL, indicates that tropical storm-force winds are expected within these areas within the next 36 hours. The warning is set to expire on October 9 at 7:15 PM UTC.

Peak wind forecasts anticipate 10-20 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. Potential impacts include damage to porches, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes, along with many large tree limbs breaking off. Scattered power and communications outages are possible. Actionable Information: Complete all remaining efforts to protect property as soon as possible. Move to safe shelter before hazardous winds begin.

A Flood Watch is also in effect, with an additional 2-4 inches of rainfall expected, with locally higher amounts. This could lead to moderate flooding, potentially prompting evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries may overspill their banks, and some structures could experience floodwaters. Actionable Information: Heed all flood watches and warnings. Consider protective actions if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding.

The situation is also favorable for tornadoes, with the potential for several tornadoes, some possibly intense. These could cause significant damage, power loss, and communication failures. Actionable Information: If you live in a manufactured home or on a boat, relocate to safe shelter now. Listen for tornado watches and warnings, and be ready to shelter quickly if a warning is issued.

For more information and local weather conditions, visit the NWS Tallahassee website at https://www.weather.gov/tallahassee or the Georgia Emergency Management Agency at https://ready.ga.gov.