Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Inland Bay; Prepare for Dangerous Winds

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Inland Bay, affecting Youngstown and Fountain, effective immediately and expiring at 1:00 AM UTC on October 8, 2026. This alert, issued by the NWS Tallahassee FL at 4:52 PM EDT on October 7, 2026, indicates a severe and future threat.

Residents in affected areas should prepare for dangerous winds with potential for 58 to 73 mph gusts, capable of significant damage to roofing, siding, and mobile homes. Efforts to protect life and property should be underway now. Complete all preparations before winds become hazardous. Local forecasts predict peak winds of 15-25 mph with gusts to 35 mph, but the potential for higher winds exists.

Major flooding from heavy rainfall is expected, with additional amounts of 6-10 inches possible, and locally higher amounts. Evacuations and rescues are likely, and residents are strongly advised to consider protective actions, especially in flood-prone areas. Heed all flood watches and warnings.

There is also a potential for a few tornadoes. If your shelter is vulnerable, relocate to safe shelter before hazardous weather arrives. If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. No storm surge inundation is forecast, but rough surf and life-threatening rip currents are possible. Monitor forecasts from NWS Tallahassee (weather.gov/tallahassee), Florida Division of Emergency Management (floridadisaster.org), and Bay County Emergency Management (baycountyfl.gov/EmergencyManagement).