Tropical Storm Amanda forecast to bring coastal flooding to three counties

An unsettled weather pattern over the Gulf is expected to bring tropical storm amanda into the central Gulf Coast setup, with minor coastal flooding possible in Hancock, Harrison and Jackson counties through Friday. Strong offshore winds and higher water levels could affect low-lying coastal areas during high tide cycles.

Hancock Harrison Jackson

The forecast calls for persistent onshore winds to raise water levels in coastal Hancock, Harrison and Jackson counties, especially during the high tide cycles. A coastal flood advisory means flooding of lots, parks and roads is expected, with isolated road closures possible.

That risk is concentrated in low-lying areas, where stronger winds off the Mississippi and Southeast Louisiana coasts are expected as the unsettled weather lifts north. The weather pattern is expected to gradually form a weak area of low pressure before moving toward the central Gulf Coast.

South Mississippi Friday

A front is expected to bring drier air into South Mississippi Wednesday into Thursday, limiting rain chances before the flood threat builds later. By Friday, tropical moisture is expected to return the chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms across South Mississippi, and scattered storms by the end of the week could bring localized flash flooding.

Forecasts also say tropical development should stay limited because of high wind shear. For people in the three coastal counties, the first step is to watch tide cycles and avoid low-lying roads or parking areas that typically flood during advisory-level events.