Tropical Storm Watch In Effect For NW Florida Coast; Sally Expected To Become Hurricane

September 12, 2020

THIS STORY IS OUTDATED. SEE NORTHESCAMBIA.COM FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION.

Tropical Storm Sally is moving into the Gulf of Mexico and is now expected to become a hurricane before it makes landfall on the northern Gulf Coast.

A hurricane watch and storm surge watch is now in effect for coastal Alabama. A tropical storm watch is now in effect for coastal Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area. A watch is typically issued 48 hours before the anticipated first occurrence of tropical-storm-force winds, conditions that make outside preparations difficult or dangerous.

A tropical storm watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area within the next 48 hours.

Tropical Storm Sally will continue to move west northwest and northwest through early next week toward the northern Gulf Coast. Strengthening is forecast and the system is forecast to become a hurricane Monday afternoon. Continue to pay close attention to the intensity forecast as quick changes are possible.

Landfall is most likely from southeast Louisiana to coastal Alabama on Tuesday.

The system will slow significantly as it approaches the coast and this will likely be a prolonged event especially in regard to heavy rainfall, potential surge, wind and dangerous surf. This has thehe potential to be a significant rainfall and flooding event, especially for coastal areas, even if the storm makes landfall west of the immediate area.

Conditions continue to be favorable for intensification, according to the National Hurricane Center.

In the local area, rainfall of 5-10 inches along the coast and 2-4 inches inland will be possible, along with flash flooding. At the beaches, large waves and deadly rip currents will begin tonight and increase through the weekend. There is potential for significant wind and surge impacts across coastal areas, but this will be dependent on the eventual track.

Now is the time to check your hurricane kits and make sure you have the usual. Be sure to check batteries, your weather radio, non-perishable food supply, pet food and so on. Impacts could come as early as Sunday evening.

The latest update is in the graphics on this page. We will keep you updated here on NorthEscambia.com.

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