Sub-Tropical Storm In Gulf Likely To Hit South Alabama

MOBILE, AL - The National Hurricane Center has named the disturbance in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico as Sub-Tropical Storm Alberto. At this time, it is still too early to determine what direct impacts the system might have on Mobile County and Southwest Alabama, but elevated winds, heavy rain and dangerous rip currents are expected for Memorial Day weekend.

The difference between a subtropical storm and tropical storm is core temperature, according meteorologists. Subtropical storms have slightly lower core temperatures than tropical storms. Alberto could transition to a tropical storm.

Mobile County Emergency Management is closely monitoring this system, and said staff are on call to respond as needed. "Residents are urged to do the same by monitoring our local media for the most up-to-date forecasts several times a day," said a statement from the Mobile County EMA.

The current impacts forecast by the National Weather Service in Mobile for Sunday, May 27 through Tuesday, May 29 include:

• Rainfall amounts of 6-12 inches, with localized higher amounts o Widespread flash flooding
• Threat of isolated tornadoes
• Potential Coastal Storm surge of 1-3 feet
• Possible flooding for rivers and creeks

"At this time is too early to say if any storm shelters or road closures will be needed," said the EMA. "Law enforcement will monitor and close roads for flooding and bridges for safety at sustained (not gusts) wind speeds of 39 mph or greater for each specific bridge location."

Image from National Weather Service