Tropical storm Irma was located northwest of Valdosta, GA at 5 pm EDT and has sustained winds of 50 mph. However, Irma is a large storm, with tropical storm wind gusts outward to 415 miles from the center.
At the end of this message are a number of peak gust graphics to visually show the evolution of the event.
For In the tropical storm warning area, which remains generally east of an Oneonta – Pell City – Montgomery – Andalusia line, winds have been increasing to 25-35 mph from south to north today, and gusts will range 45-55 mph. As of 3 pm, no gust above 40 mph had been reported, but increases will occur as the center of Irma moves into AL this evening.
For areas near and west of I65, sustained winds of 20-35 mph are expected, with gusts up to 45 mph.
The strongest winds will likely occur through 5 am Tuesday.
The winds will decrease substantially after 5 am Tuesday, with breezing conditions continuing for areas east of I65 and north of I20 . 15-25 mph winds with some higher gusts on ridges will occur until around noon in this region.
For areas west of I65, 1-3 inches of rain is likely through Tuesday with 3-5 inches and isolated higher amounts generally east of I65. Only isolated flash flooding is anticipated.
The tornado threat remains very low.
Jim
