Hurricane Michael made landfall earlier this afternoon near Panama City, Fl as a strong Category 4 hurricane. Our local forecast remains consistent with previous updates. Later today around sunset and continuing through mid-morning tomorrow, we can expect sustained winds of 20-40 mph with gusts up to 50 mph, possibly stronger along the coast. Rainfall is predicted to be 2-3 inches, with locally higher amounts possible as bands move through the area. Coastal flooding associated with storm surge is not expected; however, heavy rainfall around high tide times may cause localized flooding. We expect to experience the strongest conditions overnight tonight, Wednesday. We are currently under a Tropical Storm Warning and Tornado Watch. We expect the system to move out of our area by 12-2PM, Thursday, October 11.
The City of Tybee Island remains closed for normal business operations today and will be closed Thursday, October 11. Critical Staff and Public Safety personnel will be on duty. The Tybee beaches remain closed to swimming until further notice. We have been informed that GDOT will be closing the Talmadge Bridge tonight, but do not have plans to close any other bridges at this time. Chatham County schools are closed tomorrow due to expected adverse weather conditions in the morning.
The Tybee City Council meeting scheduled for tomorrow evening will be held at its normal time, with consent agenda at 6:30PM and the regular meeting beginning at 7PM at the Tybee Island Public Safety Building.
Remember, “Shelter in Place”, stock supplies in anticipation of power outages, secure loose items around your home, have cash on hand, and stay tuned to your local media for the latest information.