Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Wayne County: Prepare for High Winds & Flooding

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Wayne County, including Waynesboro, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile AL, effective immediately. This warning signifies that tropical storm-force winds are expected within the next 36 hours. The warning was issued on October 9 at 1:02 PM CDT and is set to expire on October 9 at 9:15 PM UTC.

Residents should plan for hazardous winds between 10-20 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. All remaining efforts to protect property, such as securing outdoor items, should be completed as soon as possible. Move to safe shelter before winds become hazardous. Potential impacts include damage to porches, awnings, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes, along with broken tree limbs and scattered power outages. Hazardous driving conditions are expected, especially on bridges and elevated roadways.

Moderate flooding rain is also a significant threat, with an additional 1 inch of rainfall possible. Emergency plans should include the potential for moderate flooding, which could prompt evacuations and rescues. Rivers and tributaries may swell, overflowing banks in vulnerable areas. Floodwaters could enter some structures, and driving conditions will become hazardous due to rapid inundation in low-lying spots. Heed any flood watches and warnings.

Tornadoes are not expected at this time, though showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds may still occur.

For local information, contact Wayne County EMA at 601-735-2185 or visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/WayneMSEMA. For storm impacts, refer to NWS Mobile: www.weather.gov/mob.