Possible Severe Storms Today; Rivers Rising

April 2, 2009

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More rain and thunderstorms are possible today across North Escambia, with some storms possibly becoming severe with damaging winds. The weather service says that fast moving squall lines are expected to dump another two plus inches of rain on already saturated ground.

But the primary threat from today’s weather with be strong winds and perhaps an isolated tornado, forecasters say. Today’s rain chance is 60 percent, with a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms, especially between 2 p.m and 11 p.m. Winds will increase to 25 mph with higher gusts.

The rain chance continues at 60 percent for tonight, with most storms before 11 p.m. Storms may be severe with high winds.

Friday and Saturday are forecast to be sunny with highs in the low to mid 70’s.

Rivers

The flood warning continues until further notice for the Escambia River near Century. Wednesday night, the stage was at 18.4 feet. Flood state is 17 feet. Minor flooding is occurring and is forecast to continue. The river will continue to rise to about 18.8 feet by Thursday afternoon and remain at that level until Friday morning before beginning to fall.

The flood warning continues for the Perdido River near Barrineau Park. Wednesday night, the river was at 15.3 feet; flood state is 13 feet. The river is forecast to continue to fall to below flood stage by Thursday afternoon.

Roads

Escambia County lists the following roads as problem areas: Poplar Dell Road, Arena Road, Eastman Lane, Nine and a Half Mile Road at Sunday Road, and Cottage Hill near Williams Ditch. Many other North Escambia roads, especially dirt roads, have problem areas.

Santa Rosa County’s problem roads include: Donald Jerinigan at Munson Highway, Chumuckla Highway at Brooks Forest Way, Allentown Road from 89 to Central School Road, Munson Highway near Coldwater Flats, Chumuckla Highway Howell Pitt, Highway 87 at Bullard Road.

Pictured above: The boardwalk at Molino Fairgrounds Park was flooded by the Escambia River Wednesday afternoon. Pictured below: The boat ramp was also underwater. Submitted photos by Deni Deron for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.

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