City of Gulf Shores officials are actively monitoring the developments of Tropical Storm Zeta. As of the 1:30 p.m. CST briefing issued by the National Weather Service, Zeta is forecast to strengthen to a hurricane as it enters the south-central part of the Gulf of Mexico Tuesday, Oct 27 and will make landfall somewhere along the northern Gulf Coast Wednesday, Oct 28.

While specific impacts will depend on Zeta's strength and track, the local area will likely see the threat of dangerous surf, deadly rip currents, strong winds, coastal flooding, heavy rainfall and isolated tornadoes.

All visitors and tourists should be prepared for a possible evacuation order to be issued if Tropical Storm Zeta increases in intensity and continues on the projected path. If an evacuation order does occur, the city will post that information immediately.

Coastal flooding is also possible due to the threat of heavy rain. Residents living along the Fort Morgan Peninsula, Plash Island, other low-lying areas and those residing in mobile homes, campgrounds, and RV parks, should begin taking all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.

Residents are asked to make sure they have a current Hurricane Re-entry Pass in their vehicle. Once a Hurricane Warning has been issued for the Gulf Shores area, re-entry/beach parking passes are no longer distributed to any residents, businesses or other entities. Passes are available for pickup at both City Hall and the Gulf Shores City Store during regular business hours.

Residents should begin making all necessary storm preparations. See the following storm preparedness tips.

Stay Weather Alert - Pay extra attention to local weather reports until the storm has moved through the area. Be sure to keep your weather radio on and your cellphone charged to ensure you can receive weather alerts.

Know Your Elevation – You must know your elevation to understand if your location will be impacted by storm surge. Find your elevation online at https://viewer.nationalmap.gov/advanced-viewer/.

Gather Information – Keep a list of local emergency contact information. Find contact information at gulfshoresal.gov/resourcedirectory.

Plan and Take Action – Be sure to have a safety plan in place for you and your family. This includes planning for essential medications, contact information, food, water and pets.

The First 72 Are On You - Shelters are not available during the first 72 hours after a storm passes and residents should plan accordingly. Prepare by creating disaster kits that contain enough food, water and essential supplies that will last seven days after the storm arrives. Individuals should consider having at least two emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they spend time.

Fuel Up – Go ahead and fuel all vehicles and generators in the event that fuel is not available after the storm.

Prepare for High Winds – Bring loose, lightweight objects (e.g., patio furniture, garbage cans and bicycles) inside; anchor objects that would be unsafe to bring inside (e.g., gas grills and propane tanks); and trim or remove trees close enough to fall on buildings.

Turn Around, Don't Drown – In the event of a roadway covered by water, do not attempt to drive over the flooded road. The water depth may be misleading, and you could end up stranded or trapped.

Evacuate When Necessary – If an evacuation notice is issued, leave. Research possible evacuation routes and make arrangements before the storm, so you have somewhere to go.

Residents are asked to stop bringing any additional debris to the roadside in order to protect personal property and surrounding property. Concentrated piles of debris present a higher risk of being picked up by heavy winds. Any hazardous materials that are currently placed at the road should be brought back inside to garages or other storage areas. City crews will not pick them up in preparation for Tropical Storm Zeta.

For the latest updates and advisories, continue to follow local media and the National Weather Service Mobile at www.weather.gov/mob/ for continued weather updates. The City of Gulf Shores will continue to share updates through our City’s website and on our social media channels. To receive updates via email or text message, please visit www.gulfshoresal.gov and click on “Notify Me.”