Alabama beach vacationers: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach experienced major damage from Hurricane Sally, not welcoming guests for next 10 days

The Alabama Gulf Coast was hit heavily by Hurricane Sally, and officials are continuing to assess the damage

GULF SHORES AND ORANGE BEACH, ALA. – As Hurricane Sally impacted the Gulf Coast states overnight, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism (GSOBT) has the following area update for guests planning to visit in the coming days.

In Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and the area of Fort Morgan, conditions remain hazardous with major flooding, extensive power outages, structural damage, wide-range beach erosion, fallen trees, and many roads that are closed/impassable. There is a countywide curfew in effect from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. until further notice, and the destination is closed to visitors for at least 10 days. Those with existing reservations to arrive before Saturday, Sept. 26, should contact their hotel or rental company to find out storm cancellation and rebooking policies.

“We have been in constant communication with both local cities and the county emergency management agency, and regret that Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach areas of our beach community received significant damage from Hurricane Sally,” said Herb Malone, President & CEO for GSOBT. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected locally and in the other impacted Gulf Coast states. In times like these, our community has always come together and rebounded, and this time is no different.”

According to the City of Gulf Shores, the W.C. Holmes Bridge, located on Highway 59 crossing the Intracoastal Waterway, will remain closed for entry into Gulf Shores until further notice, except for residents and property owners with a valid Hurricane Re-entry Pass. Likewise, in the neighboring coastal city of Orange Beach, the Foley Beach Express toll bridge and Perdido Pass bridge in Orange Beach are also closed for entry to the island until further notice except for residents with valid hurricane re-entry passes and workers who can provide proof of employment via work identification or pay stub. Visitors currently in the area can depart the island heading north via either the W. C. Holmes or Foley Beach Express bridges.

“We appreciate the many comments and inquiries from visitors who love the Alabama Gulf Coast and ask for their patience as we work to clean up and return the area to full health and capacity,” said Malone. “It is imperative as we continue assessing damage and try to get power restored that visitors please avoid coming to our area for at least the next 10 days.”

For updates regarding the aftermath of Hurricane Sally, including area closings and community alerts, visit www.gulfshores.com/situation-updates/.

“Officials are working to assess the damage to ensure the area is safe before welcoming back guests,” added Malone. “Our loyal guests have always showed an overflow of support for these beach communities, and we are incredibly appreciative for their continued enthusiasm toward our area.”

For current updates, please follow Visit AL Beaches, City of Gulf Shores and City of Orange Beach on social media.

For more information on this family beach destination, visit www.gulfshores.com or www.orangebeach.com.  

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Media Contact:

Kay Maghan • Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism

[email protected] • GulfShores.com/Media

1-800-745-SAND • 251-974-4625 (direct) • 251-752-8448 (cell)

About Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism:

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism serves as the official destination marketing organization for the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in addition to the unincorporated area of Fort Morgan. To learn more about Alabama’s 32 miles of white-sand beaches, visit either GulfShores.com or OrangeBeach.com. This convention and visitors bureau is an accredited Destination Marketing Organization.