Alabama Braces for Heavy Rain as Tropical Storm Threatens

(TNS) — The sun is still frying south Alabama at the moment, but officials are preparing for the risk of heavy rain and light flooding along the Alabama coast.

The tropical depression is projected to take a westward path away from Alabama and toward the Louisiana and Texas coast, according to the National Weather Service. Heavy rain is expected in many parts of Alabama.

Flash flooding is possible in lower lying areas of Mobile and Pensacola. Central Alabama should expect some rain on top of the heat advisory issued today. Winds could reach speeds of 30 mph. The brunt of the storms are expected to the west of Alabama. Parts of Louisiana are expected to get more than 15 inches of rain.

“It’s one of those things where I’m mindful of that and we urge everyone to keep an eye to the sky and watch for changes to occur but to go on with your normal daily activity," said Dauphin Island Mayor Jeff Collier.

There are areas, specifically around West End Beach, on the island where flooding is possible. Collier said officials are keeping in touch with rental agencies to keep up awareness, as they are in peak tourism season.

The American Property Casualty Insurance Association is also warning the public of underestimating the storm and preparing adequately. They recommend taking care of your loved ones and animals first, but also spending time gathering an inventory of valuables in the case of incidents.

Baldwin County Emergency Management is watching the storm system closely. Mark Ingram, spokesperson, said they have taken preliminary precautions ahead of the storm. He recommends getting an emergency kit together, just in case.

Suggested contents for an emergency kit:

• Flashlight with fresh batteries
• Radio or portable TV
• Extra batteries
• Candles, holders and matches
• Bottled water
• Non-perishable food
• Manual can opener
• Paper plates, plastic utensils and paper towels
• Hand sanitizer
• Charcoal grill and lighter
• Blankets
• Wind-up clock

Rip currents are highly expected Thursday through Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service. The chance for precipitation will raise past 85 percent into Thursday.

Assuming it attains hurricane-strength, damaging wind gusts are likely near where it comes ashore as well as a dangerous storm surge.

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