Bolivar County remains under a Tornado Watch, Wind Advisory and Flash Flood Watch. The Tornado Watch is in effect until 8 p.m. tonight (Tues., Nov. 17).
According to the National Weather Service:
Scattered strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to develop across the region during the afternoon hours. Damaging winds of 60-70 miles per hour and tornadoes are possible with these storms. In addition, heavy rainfall of 2-4 inches with locally higher amounts will make flash flooding possible beginning late this afternoon and continuing tonight.
A wind advisory means that wind gusts of 40 mph are expected. Winds this strong can make driving difficult especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution when driving. Wind gusts of 30-40 mph occasionally bring down large limbs and rotted trees causing serious injury and property damage. Exercise caution when outdoors during these conditions.
Flash flood watch for the area begins at 3 p.m. and will continue through Wednesday morning. Showers and thunderstorms with very heavy rainfall will develop and move across the area this afternoon and tonight. Rainfall amounts of 2-4 inches will be common with locally higher amounts possible. Recent rainfalls have left the ground nearly saturated. These soil conditions and expected rainfall intensity will lead to rapid runoff and flash flooding. Some roadways may become impassable. If encountering flooded roadways, remember to turn around and don’t drown. Monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should flash flood warnings be issued.
The Delta State Emergency Response Team is monitoring the situation and will issue alerts throughout the day. The team remains in contact with the National Weather Service, emergency officials and the university’s administration.
Any changes to the university’s schedule this evening including night classes will be posted using deltastate.edu, email, text messages, Twitter (@DeltaState) and Facebook.
This weather system has the potential to affect travel conditions for our area. If you have travel plans, please check weather conditions and road conditions and use judgment before traveling. If a tornado warning is issued, remain calm. Go to an interior hall or windowless room. Crouch low, head down, and protect the back of your head with your arms.
Further updates will be posted using deltastate.edu, email, text messages, Twitter (@DeltaState) and Facebook.
Anyone who has not yet registered his or her cell phone number for emergency text alerts is encouraged to do so now by completing the following steps:
1. Login to your “My DSU” account:
2. https://banapp2.deltastate.edu:9010/dsu/twbkwbis.P_GenMenu?name=homepage
3. Choose the “Personal Information” section and the “Enroll in Okra Alert” option.
4. Add your cell phone number (with area code).
