Urgent: Tropical Storm Warning in Tallahassee
Tropical Depression Nine is as of right now in the Gulf of Mexico off of the Apalachee Bay and it is currently heading for the Big Bend Area. Tallahassee and Leon county have been put under a Tropical Storm Warning as Tropical Depression Nine (TD 9) is expected to become a Tropical Storm, or possibly even a weak hurricane, before it hits Tallahassee sometime around Thursday afternoon.
TD 9 is projected to bring heavy rain, possible flooding, and possible gusts of up to 73mph. Coastal flooding is expected as far south as the Tampa Bay even if the storm makes land fall 100 miles north. With the Tropical Storm there is also an increased risk of tornadoes and waterspouts.
Gov. Rick Scott has, as of today, declared a state of emergency in 42 counties to prepare for any damage done by the storm.
Current Projections have the eye of the storm passing nearly straight through Tallahassee. Now is the time to prepare and double check your hurricane contingency plans. I know a lot of you out there are planning for the weekend already, but please do not be out on the road during this severe weather. If your house, apartment, or dorm needs is in an evacuation zone have a place prepared to wait out the storm.
Have a kit put together in case of a power outage with water, non-perishable food, flash lights, batteries, a first aid kit, a can opener, and a way to charge your electronic devices if the power goes out. Make sure you have your medications, contacts/glasses, and anything else you may need.
If you have any pets, make sure to include them in your plans! They need food, water, and a cage that can be easily moved if you need to evacuate in case of an emergency. This is a time when pets tend to escape so make sure your pets are tagged and/or microchipped. Make sure wherever you plan to go in case of an evacuation allows you to keep your pets as many emergency shelters cannot allow pets.
For up to date weather alerts please follow NOAA, The Weather Channel, and your local stations.
Be safe everyone.