Tropical Storm Rafael is approaching the southeastern Gulf of Mexico, bringing intense tropical moisture into Florida, Alabama, and Georgia. The storm’s impact will begin Wednesday, with widespread showers spreading inland and record-setting levels of humidity for early November. Overnight lows are expected to remain unusually warm, with Tallahassee possibly hitting a record low of 74 degrees, well above the previous record of 71 degrees.
Rainfall totals are forecast to be significant, especially in northeastern counties like Albany and Tifton, where there is a 30-40% chance of receiving 3-5 inches of rain. Flooding is a growing concern, but officials are waiting to issue any Flood Watches until confidence in the heaviest rain axis location increases. Additionally, forecasters warn of a non-zero chance of severe weather, particularly in Georgia counties, where enhanced wind shear could lead to a few rotating storms.
Overall, expect stormy conditions with high temperatures held back in the upper 70s to lower 80s due to heavy cloud cover and persistent rain. Residents should stay alert to potential weather warnings as conditions develop.