HURRICANE IAN: Predictions on Alabama impact, plus how to prepare + stay safe

As Hurricane Ian approaches, Alabamians on the coast are urged to prepare for severe weather. The latest from the US National Weather Service Mobile states that Hurricane Ian’s track generally stays east of the Mobile area, but impacts are still expected. Here are tips on how to best prepare.

What to expect

As concern for Hurricane Ian rises, you may be wondering what impact it’ll have on your area. Here’s the latest from the US National Weather Service Mobile:

“12PM Update [09/26]: We are starting to have increasing confidence that Hurricane Ian’s track stays generally east of our area, but we still expect impacts!

RIP CURRENTS/SURF: Swell associated with Ian will lead to DANGEROUS rip currents and surf along with rapidly building seas offshore this week. A HIGH Rip Current Risk begins Wednesday and continues through Friday. Surf rapidly builds to 6-9 feet Wednesday.

COASTAL FLOODING: Minor coastal flooding possible along Gulf-facing barrier islands and beaches. However, strong northerly winds will lead to low water levels in Mobile Bay (2 feet below normal) on Wednesday and Thursday during low tide. Low water levels may be experienced in other local bays to a smaller extent.

WIND: A prolonged period of gusty winds is expected Wednesday through Thursday and potentially into Friday due to the gradient between Hurricane Ian in the Gulf of Mexico and high-pressure building into the region behind today’s cold front.”

According to the US National Weather Service Mobile, the satellite presentation of Hurricane Ian improved today, Monday, September 26. The National Hurricane Center data shows Ian becoming a major hurricane by the time it reaches western Cuba and is expected to remain at or near major hurricane strength as it passes near the west-central coast of Florida on Wednesday and Thursday.

How to prepare

Although Mobile is expected to be clear of the most severe impacts of Hurricane Ian, it’s still important to make sure you and your family are prepared for any natural disaster.

Learn how to stay safe before, during and after a hurricane here.

Having the proper supplies is very important when facing dangerous weather. Here are some helpful checklists from the City of Mobile to help you put a plan together and be prepared.

Check out a full list of emergency preparedness materials here.

This week, be sure to keep your electronics charged, and if you don’t have access to a televised weather broadcast, be sure to follow your local NWS branch on social media for the latest updates:

• U.S. National Weather Service Huntsville Office
• U.S. National Weather Service Birmingham Office
• U.S. National Weather Service  Mobile Office

Stay safe, Alabama!

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