URGENT: Life-Threatening Storm Surge and Winds for Mobile Coastal

MOBILE COASTAL — A Storm Surge Warning is in effect for Grand Bay, Dauphin Island, and Bayou La Batre, issued by the NWS Mobile AL on October 9 at 7:27 AM CDT. Residents in these areas face immediate threats from life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds. The National Weather Service advises that last-minute preparations for wind protection should be complete, and flood preparations and ordered evacuations should already be finalized. Evacuees must be in shelters well away from storm surge flooding.

Life-threatening storm surge of 3-5 feet above ground is possible through Saturday morning. Dangerous winds of 35-45 mph with gusts up to 75 mph are expected from early this afternoon until early Saturday morning. Potential for wind speeds of 58 to 73 mph exists. Now is the time to shelter from dangerous wind; do not venture outside.

A Flood Watch is also in effect, with an additional 1-3 inches of rain expected, potentially causing major flooding. Evacuations and rescues are likely due to this heavy rainfall. Heed all flood watches and warnings immediately. Tornadoes are not expected at this time.

For evacuation and shelter information, contact Mobile County EMA at 251-460-8000 or visit mobilecountyema.gov. For storm surge threat graphics, visit www.weather.gov/mob.