Weather service issues wind advisory; other news and notes

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the Gulf Coast until 9 this evening.

A wind advisory means that winds of 35 mph are expected. Winds of this strength can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.

The weather service says that surface reports show sustained winds are approaching 30 mph with wind gusts of 40 mph occurring. These strong winds are expected to increase over the next several hours and continue through the evening hours.

Detailed report: For more weather information — weekend and seven-day forecasts, radar and satellite images, and details of the wind advisory — click here.

Oil leak news and notes

MEMA info line: The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency has opened a call center to answer questions from concerned residents regarding the oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico. The number is 866-920-MEMA (6362).

Volunteers: Nearly 350 volunteers have signed up through the city’s web site to help with efforts dealing with the oil leak. To sign up now, click here.