As the first named storm of this hurricane season makes its way across the central states of the Gulf, Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency officials are urging residents and visitors to prepare for multiple days of hazardous weather conditions.

According to the National Weather Service-Mobile, the remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur will produce widespread heavy rainfall, life-threatening flash flooding and dangerous coastal conditions through the end of the week.

Flash flooding and heavy rainfall

A Flood Watch is in effect through 7 p.m. Friday. Forecasts indicate:

• 4–8 inches of additional rain, with localized amounts over 10 inches possible.
• Life-threatening flash flooding, especially Thursday and Friday as saturated soil increases runoff potential.
• Many rivers may rise into flood stage, with particular concern for rivers such as the Styx River and Fish River if heavy rain bands align upstream, according to BCEMA.

“Residents living in flood-prone areas are strongly encouraged to make plans now, knowing flooding may develop rapidly. Everyone should have multiple ways to receive alerts and be prepared to move to higher ground if warnings are issued,” the agency wrote in a news release.

Severe weather risk

In addition to flooding, NWS notes the potential for:

• Isolated tornadoes, primarily late tonight into Thursday; and
• Isolated damaging winds.

Confidence in tornado development remains low to moderate, but conditions may change quickly.

Coastal and marine hazards – beach and Gulf safety

The National Weather Service reports life-threatening coastal conditions through at least Saturday:

• High risk of rip currents through the end of the week;
• High surf with breakers of 5–7 feet late tonight through Friday morning; and
• Minor coastal flooding is possible Thursday afternoon.

Beach safe guidance

Everyone visiting Baldwin County’s beaches is urged to practice extreme caution:

• Stay out of the water during high surf and rip current conditions.
• Never enter the Gulf when double red flags are flying – the water is closed.
• Rip currents can form suddenly and are powerful enough to pull even experienced swimmers away from shore.
• If caught in a rip current: float, don’t fight, and wave for help.

County preparedness and resident actions

The Baldwin County Commission, Baldwin County EMA and public safety partners are closely monitoring evolving conditions and coordinating response readiness.

Residents are urged to:

• Avoid flooded roadways. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
• Clear gutters, drains and ditches to reduce localized flooding.
• Monitor updates from NOAA Weather Radio, local media and Baldwin County EMA.

Sand available for residents

The Baldwin County Commission has made sand available behind the Baldwin County Central Annex, located at 22251 Palmer St., Robertsdale, AL 36567. Residents should bring their own shovels, tools and sandbags, as the site is self-serve to allow quick access before and during periods of heavy rain.