Irma’s downgraded condition to tropical storm will give the Cullman area a break, but plenty of rain and wind is still expected today.

The tropical storm watch has been replaced by a wind advisory that goes into effect at 3 p.m. today and continues until 4 a.m. Sustained winds of 20-25 miles per hour are expected during that period, along with gusts of 30-35 miles per hour, said Cullman County Emergency Management Agency Director Phyllis Little.

The wind-speed projection today is a significant decrease since earlier this morning.

“That brings it down about 10 miles per hour on the sustained winds, and even more on the gusts,” Little said. “If you don’t secure your garbage can, it just means it won’t blow as far away if the winds were higher.”

With the winds coming and 2-3 inches expected through Tuesday morning, Little said unsecured items in yards and around businesses could pose a hazard if they are lifted up in the winds and sent flying down streets.

“We’re encouraging everyone to clean up or secure the typical items you would leave outside. The wind can easily carry those items off and they could hit someone or a passing car,” she said.

Rain and winds will begin to diminish Tuesday as the remnant of Irma makes its way out of the area.