The hurricane poses significant risks to coastal communities, including storm surges of 5 to 7 feet in parts of Alabama and Mississippi, heavy rainfall of up to 10 inches, and the potential for tornadoes. Power outages are expected, and local authorities have urged residents in low-lying areas to evacuate. The storm could also disrupt oil production and tourism in the region, with 25% of Gulf oil production already halted. Inland areas, including the Tennessee Valley, may experience flooding over the weekend.