Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Wayne County: Prepare for Hazardous Winds

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Wayne County, effective immediately and expiring at 6:00 PM UTC today, October 9, 2026. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Mobile, AL, issued the alert at 10:00 AM CDT. Residents in Waynesboro and surrounding areas should prepare for hazardous wind conditions.

Peak winds of 10-20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph are forecast, with a potential for sustained winds of 39 to 57 mph. Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes is possible. Expect many large tree limbs to break, and some trees may snap or uproot. Scattered power and communications outages are also anticipated.

Remaining efforts to protect property should be completed as soon as possible. Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. Hazardous driving conditions are expected on bridges and elevated roadways. Some roads may become impassable due to debris.

An additional 1 inch of rain is forecast, leading to a potential for moderate flooding. Emergency plans should include the possibility of evacuations and rescues. Heed any flood watches and warnings. Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen, and floodwaters could enter some structures or weaken foundations.

Tornadoes are not expected at this time. For local information, contact the Wayne County EMA at 601-735-2185 or visit their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/WayneMSEMA). For storm impacts, refer to the NWS Mobile website: www.weather.gov/mob.