LOWNDES Co. – Hurricane Hermine is expected to make landfall in the Florida Panhandle around midnight, but the storm may bring Tropical Storm force winds to Lowndes County and surrounding before nightfall.

The Lowndes County Emergency Management Agency has issued the following statement:

For the past several days, local emergency management officials have been coordinating with the NWS regarding potential impacts for Lowndes County as a result of Tropical Storm Hermine. Hermine is now forecast to make landfall in the Florida Big Bend around midnight as a Category 1 hurricane.

Because the impacts extend far beyond the storm’s center Lowndes County is forecast to receive high winds and heavy rains as the storm makes its way through the area. Rainfall amounts as high as 7-9 inches are expected which could result in flash flooding for those in low lying areas or areas with poor drainage. Also by 8PM tonight winds are expected to be sustained at 40-45 mph and increase to 55-60 mph by 11PM. The Tropical Storm force winds are expected to continue until 10-11AM tomorrow morning.

All Lowndes County residents are encouraged to closely monitor the weather. The best way to do this is by having a NOAA Weather Radio and signing up for Code Red Weather Warnings at www.lowndescounty.com.

Those residents who do not have adequate shelter to sustain the high wind speeds projected, such as those in mobile homes, may seek shelter at Mathis City Auditorium beginning at 7PM tonight. This shelter will close once wind speeds drop below tropical storm force and anyone seeking shelter should bring all of the bedding, clothing, medicine and other supplies they may need with them. Pets are not allowed in the shelter.

Please do not call 911 as a result of receiving this call or for storm information. 911 should only be called in the event emergency response is needed.

For up to date information stay tuned to local media outlets, follow Lowndes County on Twitter at @Lowndes411 or on Facebook at EMA Lowndes.