EMA watching weather

Published 7:30 pm Wednesday, February 5, 2020

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The Covington County Emergency Management Agency is monitoring a potential threat of severe weather.

EMA director Susan Harris said heavy rain will continue to affect the area through Thursday afternoon, along with the potential for severe storms.

“We are becoming increasingly concerned that a strong line of storms will develop just west of I-65 early tomorrow morning (Thursday) and quickly moving east,” Harris said. “This line of storms has the potential to bring an enhanced risk of damaging winds and embedded tornadoes. The timing window of this line looks to be from roughly 3 a.m., to 11 a.m., with the severe threat coming to an end across the entire area by noon.”

Heavy rainfall is expected during this time period. Harris said heavier amounts as much as 10 inches could be possible.

“Heavy rainfall of widespread 4 to 6 inches. Locally heavier amounts of 10 inches or more will be possible, especially along and east of the I-65 corridor,” Harris said. “Flash flooding along with river flooding is looking more likely. Rainfall amounts over 6 inches could lead to increased flooding concerns for the Styx River at Elsanor, Murder Creek at Brewton, Yellow River at Milligan, and the Shoal River at Crestview. If the higher rain totals materialize, these rivers could reach moderate flood stage.”

Andalusia City Schools Superintendent Ted Watson said, “Andalusia City Schools will be in session Thursday. We are watching the weather forecast for tonight and tomorrow, and if it appears that we need to make a change in Thursday’s schedule, we will make that announcement by 5 a.m.”

Covington County Schools Superintendent Shannon Driver said school is still in session Thursday, but he and his staff are closely monitoring the weather, as well.