Hurricane Michael: Here’s what Valdosta can expect

Valdosta, Georgia, is under a tropical storm warning and tornado watch as Hurricane Michael makes landfall on the Florida coast.

» RELATED: Gov. Deal expands state of emergency as 'very dangerous' Hurricane Michael menaces Georgia

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is covering the preparation and response to Hurricane Michael with reporters and photographers tracking developments as they happen. Come back to ajc.com to keep up with Georgia's weather, storm damage, and alerts from officials on how to keep your family safe.

» RELATED: Here's what's closed in Georgia ahead of Hurricane Michael

If you live in Valdosta, you can expect Hurricane Michael to hit Wednesday evening, with wind gusts up to 73 miles per hour during the height of the storm, according to the National Weather Service.

“Now is the time to shelter from dangerous wind,” local officials said Wednesday afternoon.

Widespread rainfall is also expected, plus an elevated risk of localized flash flooding. The NWS forecasts 1 to 3 inches of rain.

"Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage areas," the NWS warned. "Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as storm drains and retention ponds overflow." Driving conditions may also become hazardous and local residents should expect road and bridge closures.

A tornado watch is in effect for Lowndes County through 5 p.m. Wednesday.

» RELATED: Hurricane tracker: Where is Hurricane Michael now?

More Hurricane Michael coverage from The AJC:

» S.W. Georgia awaits potentially 'life-altering' Hurricane Michael

» Hurricane Michael: How storm surges build up, destroy and kill

» What is a state of emergency? Georgia braces for Hurricane Michael

» Storm prep checklist for outside the home

» What is a state of emergency? Georgia braces for Hurricane Michael

» The difference between a hurricane watch and hurricane warning

» How to know whether your tree will fall during Hurricane Michael

» What you should do if a tree falls on your house or car — and how to prevent it from happening at all

» For a detailed forecast, visit The Atlanta Journal-Constitution weather page.

» Download The Atlanta Journal-Constitution app for weather alerts on-the-go.