The current storm system should bring as much rain to Pike County in 24 hours as the county received in the entire month of October, according to information from the National Weather Service’s Birmingham office.

“That’s really good stuff for the drought,” meteorologist Michael Garrison said.

Pike County received 1.76 inches of rain in October. This storm should provide at least 1.5 inches of rain in all parts of Pike County, with some areas receiving more. The heaviest rain will last through the night until mid-morning, Garrison said, and there is a 60 percent chance of rain throughout the next 24 hours. There is also the possibility that Pike County’s current D-2 drought rating could regress to a D-1 rating, he said.

“It’s definitely going to help,” he said. “It should help out the farmers quite a bit.”

Citizens should be on the lookout for strong thunderstorms, particularly on the morning drive to work. Troy City Police Sgt. Benny Scarbrough said to allow plenty of time for a slow, safe, particularly for families with children and people on their way to work.

“Drive defensively, drive safely,” he said. “Make sure everyone in that vehicle is wearing a seatbelt, and just be safe. Give yourself plenty of time to get there.”

Pike County EMA Director Jeanna Barnes said there is a possibility of severe thunderstorms, with a slight possibility of tornado conditions or small hail.

“Check the weather when you wake up,” she said.