Severe Weather Warning from the Mobile County Emergency Management Agency

Mar 31st, 2009

Heavy rains will move into Mobile County again this evening: There is a risk of severe thunderstorms this evening and tonight. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue to develop across Mobile County and then become numerous through this afternoon as a cold front advances into our area. A line of strong thunderstorms is anticipated to move into the area ahead of the cold front and across Mobile County this evening. The showers and thunderstorms in this area should end later tonight. Conditions in the atmosphere support the development of isolated thunderstorms which could produce damaging winds, small hail and the possibility of tornadoes.

Additional rainfall totals tonight will average 2 to 3.5 inches with the possibility of additional amounts up to 3 to 5 inches in isolated areas with the heavy rains over Mobile County tonight.

A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect. Some areas of Southwest Alabama have already received some 10 to 15 inches of rainfall…and several small streams, creeks and rivers are at bank full. Several areas rivers will continue to rise to flood stage. Everyone should be alert for flash flooding as they travel throughout Mobile County this evening and tonight. Flash flooding is possible as excess runoff can result in flooding over low lying areas...roads...streams...creeks and urbanized areas subject to poor drainage during these types of events. Some dirt and even paved roads could become washed out and impassable.

Regardless of how a flood or flash flood occurs, the rule for being safe is simple: head for higher ground and stay away from flood waters. Even a shallow depth of fast-moving flood water produces more force than most people imagine. The most dangerous thing you can do is to try walking, swimming, or driving through flood waters. Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles. DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH WATERS THAT COVER THE ROADWAY.

Any citizens in Mobile County who have damage from the previous or upcoming storms need to report that damage to 211.

Any citizens in Mobile County who become displaced and need shelter as a result of storm damage need to call the local Red Cross Chapter at 251-438-2571.

A low pressure system will move through our area on Thursday accompanied by scattered and numerous thunderstorms. Currently, there is a SLIGHT risk of severe thunderstorms for the entire area Thursday into Thursday night.

Mobile County EMA has coordinated with multiple agencies to include local first responders, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, VOAD, the Housing Board and all local jurisdictions.