Mobile County EMA - Sub-Tropical Storm Alberto Advisory #1

Posted on: May 25th, 2018 | News and Announcements

As of: 10:00 AM May 25, 2018 Residents Encouraged to Prep & Monitor the Gulf Coast over Holiday Weekend The National Hurricane Center has named the disturbance in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico as Sub-Tropical Storm Alberto. At this time, it is still too early to determine what direct impacts the system might have on Mobile County and Southwest Alabama, but elevated winds, heavy rain and dangerous rip currents are expected. Mobile County Emergency Management is closely monitoring this system, and staff are on call to respond as needed. Residents are urged to do the same by monitoring our local media for the most up-to-date forecasts several times a day. The current impacts forecast by the National Weather Service in Mobile for Sunday, May 27 through Tuesday, May 29 include: o Rainfall amounts of 6-12 inches, with localized higher amounts o Widespread flash flooding o Threat of isolated tornadoes o Potential Coastal Storm surge of 1-3 feet o Possible flooding for rivers and creeks At this time is too early to say if any storm shelters or road closures will be needed. Law enforcement will monitor and close roads for flooding and bridges for safety at sustained (not gusts) wind speeds of 39 mph or greater for each specific bridge location. Any closures will be communicated to the local media so continue to monitor their releases for the most updated information. Residents should take the time now to double check their storm supplies and preparations so that if the threat develops, they are ready. Continue to prepare by having a plan, getting a kit and staying informed: Review or make a family plan. This includes: Knowing your evacuation zone is one of the most important hurricane preparation steps you can take. It is very important that you look up your evacuation zone each year to find out if and when you should evacuate. Most importantly, donâ??t rely on previous storm experience. Just because you weathered the last storm, doesnâ??t mean you will weather this one. Know where you will go. If you live in an evacuation zone, know where you will go and how you will get there. Will you go to a friend or relativeâ??s home, a hotel, or as a last resort, a public shelter? It is always easier to go tens of miles, not hundreds. Have a communication plan. Plan now how you will contact one another and where you will meet. Make arrangements in advance to accommodate those in your family with special needs like the elderly, children and pets. Always have at least an extra 3-7 days stock of medical supplies, medication and any other special items you may need. Take photos of important documents and your valuables. Save these to a thumb drive or keep on your mobile device. Get a kit. Your disaster kit should have at least three days of nonperishable food and three gallons of water for each person and pet in your home, along with other supplies. Stay informed. A tropical system can develop very quickly. Be sure you take time every day to monitor the local media. Monitor the local media and legitimate online and social media sources like the US National Weather Service Mobile, and the NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center. Prep your yard and home. As a storm threatens, it is also recommended that residents take a few minutes to inspect their home and yard. Check for, fix or remove loose items on your home and sheds. Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and down spouts. Trim trees and shrubs around your home.