Please see the weather alert regarding Tropical Storm Alberto.

The latest from the National Hurricane Center

Please monitor the weather closely today. If you live on (or near) the coast, please monitor the tides VERY CLOSELY. High tide will be about mid-day.

The latest EOC Alert #5 Subtropical Storm Alberto is attached.

SITUATION

Subtropical Storm Alberto is forecast to strengthen while moving northward over the Gulf of Mexico and will impact West Central and Southwest Florida tonight into Sunday night.

Primary concerns at this time are storm surge flooding along the Citrus and Levy County coasts, heavy rainfall causing localized flooding, and Tropical Storm force winds, mainly close to the coast and over the coastal waters.

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for the west coast of the Florida peninsula from Boca Grande to the Anclote River. A Tropical Storm Watch along the coast of the Florida panhandle has been extended eastward to the Aucilla River.

A Storm Surge Watch is also in effect from Crystal River, Florida to the mouth of the Mississippi River.

Hernando County is under an Areal Flood Watch until Monday, May 28 at 8:00 p.m.
POSSIBLE IMPACTS

Rainfall of 2.5 to 3 inches is expected through Monday. Localized higher amounts are possible.

Tides are expected to be 2 to 3 feet higher than normal levels. Minor coastal flooding is possible.

Gusts up to 40 mph are expected along the coast, in addition to high surf and rip current conditions.

Coastal flash flooding is possible, depending on the amount of rainfall received over a 3 hour period.

Localized flooding is possible in low-lying, flood prone areas that see higher rain totals.
Since soils are already saturated, heavy rain (generally 3 to 4 inches in less than 3 hours) will cause flash flooding issues.

Lower amounts, (generally 3 to 6 inches) over a longer time period can still cause flooding of roads and low-lying areas.

Additional watches and warnings may be issued in the near future. Stay tuned to local media for updates.

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS

Coastal residents are strongly encouraged to monitor tide gauges closely over the next several days. Tide data is available at https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html?id=8727151&legacy=1

Residents that own horses and other large animals are strongly encouraged to consider relocating them to higher ground prior to the arrival of heavy rainfall, to avoid the need for rescue if waters rise.

Residents living in low-lying, flood prone, or coastal areas should pay close attention to weather conditions over the next several days.

If you reside in a low-lying structure near the coast, monitor conditions closely and consider moving inland.

Flash flooding may quickly inundate roadways, possibly isolating low-lying areas. Turn around, don’t drown. Do not drive through flooded areas.

Mariners should heed warnings on small craft advisories.

Check and re-stock emergency supply kits as needed.

Residents are encouraged to exercise caution to prevent illness and injury associated with coming into contact with flood waters. Visit the Florida Department of Health in Hernando County at http://www.hernando.floridahealth.gov for more information.

All residents are urged to actively monitor local news or the National Weather Service at https://weather.gov/tbw

Report damages promptly to the Emergency Operations Center at 352-754-4083.