Weather and municipal officials are urging residents to finish preparations for Hurricane Isaias today. Not a resident? They’re asking you to leave, now.
Isaias strengthened into the Atlantic basin’s first hurricane of the season overnight Wednesday into Thursday, marking the longest it has taken a hurricane to form since record-keeping began. It is expected to make landfall on the northern Gulf Coast, potentially around Perdido Key, Friday night as a Category 1 or 2 with winds around 90-100 mph.
Those near the center and to the east will see the worst weather, according to the National Weather Service. A storm surge of 5-7 feet is predicted for the entire Alabama coast and Mobile Bay.
Isaias is expected to produce 3-7 inches of rain through the weekend, with localized totals up to 10 inches between far southeastern Louisiana and the Florida Panhandle.
All of Baldwin County is in a Hurricane Warning, and coastal and low-lying areas near the bay and other water are in a Storm Surge Warning.
In anticipation of the storm, the island cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are encouraging those in the area on vacation, as well as full-time residents in low-lying, flood prone areas to voluntarily evacuate.
“City officials urge all individuals who are not permanent residents to leave the area immediately and relocate to a safer location. Departing now will help reduce congestion, support emergency operations, and ensure the safety of those who may be most vulnerable during the storm,” a joint statement from the cities says.
Once sustained winds reach 45 mph, all bridges will be closed. Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism Public Relations Manager Kay Maghan said don’t count on bridges being open past noon on Friday, and make travel plans accordingly.
“We haven't had a voluntary evacuation in a long time, so we don't take it lightly,” Mayor Tony Kennon said. "Please help us by leaving the Islands so that we do what needs to be done.”
Beach conditions
Beach hazards: Water is closed. HIGH risk of life-threatening rip currents throughout Friday and Saturday with dangerous surf (20-25 foot breakers on the east side of the storm). Both cities are flying double red flags, which means the waters are closed. While the surf that comes with weather events may look “fun,” this surf is very dangerous and life-threatening. For your own safety and the safety of others, stay out of the water.
If you have a reservation
Those who have booked lodging on AlabamasBeaches.com should reach out to their individual merchant of record found in their confirmation email. Be sure to have your confirmation number ready when speaking to reservationist regarding modification or cancellation. All other guests with reservations should contact the company through which they booked the reservation.
Flights
Gulf Shores International Airport (JKA/GUF) is currently operating as normal, while monitoring the system and preparing for impacts.
Allegiant Airlines has issued a travel alert on their website for all travelers from Friday, Oct. 9, through Sunday, Oct. 12 and is communicating with passengers on specific cancellations or delays. Allegiant Airlines can be reached at 702-505-8888.
Allegiant’s Travel Alert can be found here: https://www.allegiantair.com/travel-alerts.
