Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Central Alabama

Residents across Central Alabama, particularly in southern and eastern counties, must prepare immediately for significant impacts from Hurricane Isaias. The National Weather Service in Birmingham, AL, has issued a Tropical Cyclone Local Statement tonight, October 8, at 10:37 PM CDT, indicating a Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Autauga, Barbour, Bullock, Dallas, Elmore, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Montgomery, and Pike counties. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Bibb, Chambers, Chilton, Clay, Coosa, Greene, Hale, Jefferson, Lee, Perry, Pickens, Randolph, Russell, Shelby, St. Clair, Sumter, Talladega, Tallapoosa, and Tuscaloosa counties.

Hurricane Isaias is expected to make landfall Friday evening. Winds gusting as high as 50 to 60+ mph are anticipated late Friday night through Saturday, potentially causing widespread downed trees and power lines. Rainfall of 1.5 to 4 inches, with isolated amounts up to 5 inches, could lead to flash flooding, especially in urban and poor drainage areas. Isolated tornadoes are possible, mainly east of Interstate 65, with eastern portions of the state under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5).

Residents in affected areas should secure outdoor items, check emergency plans and supplies, and prepare for potential power outages. If you are in a mobile or manufactured home or near large trees, plan to move to safer shelter. Those vulnerable to flooding should seek higher ground. Always heed local official advice and comply with any orders issued. Monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather Radio, and local news for updates. The next local statement is expected around 1 AM CDT.