Weather forecasters have issued a tornado watch for Baldwin County until 8 p.m. this evening as a storm system sweeps through the Gulf Coast area.

The National Weather Service said parts of Louisiana, Mississippi and south Alabama are likely to be the areas of greatest concerns for damaging storms.

High winds of up to 70 miles per hour, hail and flash flooding could be possible during this weather event.

Earlier today, a flood warning was issued for the area near the Period River in Baldwin County, as high rain had caused the river to rise and increased risks in the area for the chance of a flash flood.

A small craft advisory is also in effect for open waters in Alabama and the western Florida panhandle, with onshore winds expected to increase as the day progresses. According to reports, waves are building to four feet at the shore and seven feet well offshore.

Red flags are currently flying at the Gulf Coast beaches, indicating high hazards including high surf and/or strong currents.

Gulf Coast Media will update this story thoughout the day and will post updates as we receive them.