URGENT: Life-Threatening Storm Surge and Winds for Coastal Bay

Coastal Bay residents, including those in Panama City, Panama City Beach, Mexico Beach, Lynn Haven, and Bayou George, face an immediate and extreme threat from a Storm Surge Warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL this morning, October 8th, at 8:01 AM EDT. This warning is effective until 4:15 PM UTC today.

Evacuation efforts for storm surge should be completed now. A life-threatening storm surge of 4-7 feet above ground is possible, with potential for over 6 feet in some areas, starting Friday morning and continuing until Saturday morning. Leave immediately if evacuation orders are given to avoid being cut off from emergency services.

Dangerous winds are also expected, with peak gusts up to 55 mph, and potential for stronger winds of 58 to 73 mph. Act now to complete preparations for significant wind damage. Expect damage to roofing, siding, mobile homes, and potential for large trees to be snapped or uprooted. Scattered power and communications outages are likely.

A Flood Watch is in effect, with 3-6 inches of rain expected, leading to potential major flooding. Heed all flood watches and warnings. The NWS also indicates a favorable situation for several tornadoes, some possibly intense. Listen for tornado watches and warnings and be ready to shelter quickly. Those in manufactured homes or on boats should relocate to safe shelter before hazardous weather arrives.

For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee, Florida Division of Emergency Management, and Bay County Emergency Management.