Hurricane Isaias Tracks North: What West Alabama Can Expect

According to the National Hurricane Center, “ISAIAS MAKES LANDFALL NEAR DESTIN, FLORIDA. LIFE-THREATENING STORM SURGE IMPACTING THE GULF COAST AS DANGEROUS HURRICANE CONDITIONS AND FLASH FLOODING SPREAD INLAND"

Hurricane Isaias strengthened into a Category 3 this morning and remains a strong hurricane.

It is expected to bring widespread power outages, airport delays, and hazardous road conditions along its path. It also brings heavy rain, strong winds, flash flooding, and, for some, a potential tornado threat.

Isaias Stats as of Friday, October 9, at p.m.

The system is moving North and is expected to continue on a northward track.
The speed of the system is 19 mph
Maximum sustained wind speed is 105 mph
Minimum pressure is 959 mb
Seas near the center are up to 33 ft.

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What Happens After Landfall?

“A northward motion is expected to continue through Saturday, bringing Isaias's center through Alabama, followed by a northeastward trajectory across Tennessee and the central Appalachians on Sunday,” said the National Hurricane Center.

Because Isaias is expected to move quickly, strong hurricane-force winds could reach well inland.

The National Weather Service in Birmingham said they have high confidence in the track and intensity as the system approaches the coast.

Weather Alerts for West Alabama

Tropical Storm Warning
Flood Watch
Level 2 out of 5 for severe weather impacts a southern portion of Perry County

Potential Impacts in West Alabama

Winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts to 50 to 60+ mph possible
Damaging winds are expected that may cause downed trees and power outages
Heavy Rainfall
Rainfall that could lead to flash flooding
West Alabama is in the Slight Risk zone for excessive rainfall leading to flash flooding

“Wind is the BIG issue,” said James Spann, Alabama Weather Network Chief Meteorologist. “Winds at hurricane force on the coast. Due to the accelerating forward speed and expanding wind field, most all of inland Alabama could see gusts to 50/60 mph overnight tonight. This will likely create major power outages and considerable tree damage.”

Timing

West Alabama is most likely to feel tropical storm-force winds late this evening and overnight Saturday into early Saturday morning.

Townsquare Media Weather Center

The Townsquare Media Weather Center will remain on duty and provide coverage until Isaias moves out of our coverage area. In the meantime, please make sure your cell phones, computers, iPads, and tablets are fully charged so you can stay connected and informed throughout the storm.

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Stay safe and weather-aware.

Mary K. – Weather Forecaster