Twin States Weather Blog

Arlene Update -- 1:30 PM

Tropical Storm Arlene continues to press on to the northern Gulf Coast. Landfall is occuring now along the Alabama/Florida border. As of the 1 PM Public Advisory from the Tropical Prediction Center, Arlene has maximum sustained winds of 60 mph with higher gusts. Lowest central pressure is around 991 mb, an increase from previous advisories.

Now what does that have to do with our weather? I think our biggest threat will be the heavy rain and flooding potential. Winds should be less of a problem, sustained between 25-40 mph for a brief time, especially in areas in West Alabama. Given the saturated soils, even winds of this speed can topple limbs and trees, but I get the idea that the biggest threat will be the heavy rainfall, with amounts of 4-6 inches possible. According to some rainfall estimates, parts of Wayne Co. MS and Choctaw Co. AL have seen almost 3 inches of rain. Would not be surprised to see isolated reports of 8 inches in some spots, especially south and west of here.

We're here keeping an eye on things, and will break into programming if necessary. Be sure to stay up with the latest on Arlene on our website and keep up with information coming out of the National Weather Service in Jackson and Birmingham, as well as the Tropical Prediction Center.

posted by Anonymous @ 1:13 PM