Tropical Storm Idalia is predicted to become a major hurricane, and while Baldwin County isn’t in the predicted path, Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) continues to closely monitor the storm.

The National Weather Service of Mobile issued this statement today:

“Tropical Storm Idalia continues to intensity as it meanders near the Yucatan Peninsula this morning. Idalia will move north through Tuesday before turning more to the north-northeast as it lifts across the eastern Gulf of Mexico. Idalia will strengthen into a hurricane today.

“Rapid intensification is becoming increasingly likely as Idalia moves across the eastern Gulf of Mexico. Idalia will continue to strengthen up to landfall and is now forecast to become a major hurricane before landfall.

“No local impacts are expected today. Confidence continues to increase in a high risk for deadly rip currents and high surf beginning late Tuesday and persisting into Thursday. Forecasts continue to trend slightly to the east with the track of Idalia; however, there is still some potential for shifts in the forecast track. We will continue to monitor for additional impacts, especially for the coastal counties.”

Baldwin County EMA will continue to monitor Tropical Storm Idalia and wants residents to know the following:

• Continue to monitor Tropical Storm Idalia. Shifts in the forecast track are possible.
• No local impacts are expected currently except for the high risk of deadly rip currents.
• The cone represents the possible path of the storm’s center. It does not show the size of the storm and areas outside the cone are still at risk of potential impacts.
• Be prepared, not scared. It is a good time to review current hurricane plans, know your evacuation zone, check your emergency supplies, secure your home, update your insurance, communicate with family and friends and stay informed.
• Follow the National Weather Service of Mobile, Baldwin County EMA and local media outlets for the latest updates: https://www.weather.gov/srh/tropical?office=mob.
• Register to receive Baldwin County Alerts and Weather Updates by visiting www.alertbaldwin.com.
• Please text ALBEACHES to 888777 for a daily beach update.