GCM Staff Report
Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency is encouraging residents and visitors of Baldwin County to monitor local weather and be prepared should we have direct impacts to our area. “There is no need to panic,” the agency wrote in an update Monday afternoon, “however, it’s always a good idea to be prepared and stay informed.
Tropical Storm Francine situation overview:
- Tropical Storm Francine is currently forecast to intensify into a hurricane prior to making landfall along the northwest Gulf Coast at the earliest Tuesday night but most likely Wednesday.
- Francine is currently expected to bring impacts to the area as the core likely makes landfall to our west.
- Primary impact concerns will be dangerous rip currents and high surf, the potential for wind gusts to tropical storm force over the western half of our area, heavy rainfall and localized flooding, strong winds and seas over marine areas, and isolated tornadoes.
Key takeaways
- Francine is expected to bring impacts to the local area from as early as Tuesday night through Thursday.
- Primary impacts will be dangerous rip currents and high surf, minor coastal flooding, gusty winds especially near the coast and over southeast Mississippi, heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding, and isolated tornadoes.
“We would like to remind you that now is a good time to sign up for local, emergency alerts through www.alertbaldwin.com/. This system allows Baldwin County EMA to send updates before, during, and after a disaster. You will also receive automated messaging from the National Weather Service of Mobile to conveniently stay informed,” the agency wrote.
Preparedness tips:
- Have multiple ways of receiving correct information from National Weather Service of Mobile, Baldwin County EMA and your local news outlets.
- Sign up for local, emergency alerts through www.alertbaldwin.com/.
- Know your risks and potential impacts. Know your location on a map, your evacuation zone and potential evacuation routes.
- Have any necessary supplies gathered to be self-sufficient for 5 days. Don’t forget medications and pet supplies.
- Review important documents and insurance policies. Make sure you have flood insurance if needed.
- Make an emergency plan and ensure all family members know how to contact each other and where to meet in case of an evacuation.
- Steer clear of misinformation (especially on social media). Have multiple forms of receiving CORRECT information. (Baldwin County EMA, National Weather Service of Mobile, Local media outlets, etc.)
- Monitor daily beach conditions and be aware of flag warnings. For a daily beach report, text ALBEACHES to 888777.
For more information on emergency preparedness: https://baldwincountyal.gov/ema.
