Tropical Storm Watch issued for Gulf Shores

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for our area as the former Subtropical Storm Alberto strengthens. A Tropical Storm Watch means (39 mph – 73 mph) tropical storm-force winds are possible within the next 48 hours. City of Gulf Shores officials are actively monitoring developments and The National Weather Service has issued a bulletin for our area through Tuesday, May 28. 

Significant threat risks include:

• Heavy rain/flooding
• Risk of deadly rip currents and  high surf
• Coastal flooding
• High seas and potential gale force winds over the coastal waters

Rip currents are life-threatening to anyone entering the Gulf and emergency management officials urge the public to heed their warnings and to stay out of the water.  The Beach Warning Flag System is in place for your safety. Red Flags indicate the presence of dangerous high surf and deadly rip currents; Double Red Flags indicate that it is illegal to enter the water. For more information about the beach warning flag system visit www.gulfshoresal.gov/flagsystem or call 251-968-TIDE (8433).

Please keep the following in mind throughout the heavy rainfall:
1.  Please do not place any debris or items in ditches.
2.  Do not impede the flow of water drainage throughout ditches and culverts.
3.  If you see excessive standing water or water on the roadways contact the Public Works Department, Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., at 251-968-1156. For after hours reports please contact 251-968-2431.
4.  Those living/staying in low lying areas should closely monitor conditions.

Sand Bags Available
A limited amount of free sand for sand bags is available in the parking lot to the north of the Eire H. Meyer Civic Center located at 1930 W. 2nd St.  Sand bags and shovels are not provided, but may be purchased at local hardware and home improvement stores.

City officials urge residents to get a preparedness plan in place if they haven’t already done so. For resources to create your personal preparedness plan visit www.gulfshoresal.gov/safe. 

To receive weather alerts issued by the City of Gulf Shores sign up at www.gulfshoresal.gov and click ‘Notify Me.’ Citizens can select email and/or text alerts. 

For the latest updates and advisories on the potential weather situation for Gulf Shores and the surrounding areas monitor your local media outlets, personal weather radios, or the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/mob and continue to follow the City of Gulf Shores on Facebook (www.facebook.com/cityofgulfshoresal) and Twitter (@City_GulfShores) and monitor the City’s website at www.gulfshoresal.gov or call the Emergency Information line at 251-968-2425.