The first threat of a tropical storm and possibly a hurricane is upon the Gulf states and the Miss-Lou as Tropical Storm Barry is expected to make landfall sometime today.

The storm will then move northward and bring with it plenty of rain and high winds.

The threat to the Miss-Lou is flash flooding, downed trees and tree limbs and downed power lines.

Local emergency officials have plans in place should they be needed.

In the meantime, residents should prepare by having a plan of their own to deal with any emergencies, including possibly being without electric power.

Have a plan to be in a safe shelter during the height of the wind and rain and have plenty of non-perishables and water available.

Make sure every member of your family knows the plan and sticks to it.

Do not go into low-lying areas or areas that are prone to flash flooding.

Have sandbags in place to protect structures that might be vulnerable to flooding.

Don’t drive through standing water.

Also, pay attention to weather updates by reading the weather story in today’s Natchez Democrat and check out natchezdemocrat.com throughout the weekend for weather updates as needed.

Be prepared and stay safe.