Storm Surge Watch Issued for Coastal Wakulla, Life-Threatening Flooding Possible

A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Coastal Wakulla, effective today, October 7, at 2:00 PM EDT, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL. This watch includes Saint Marks and Panacea. Life-threatening storm surge flooding of 3-5 feet above ground is possible from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

Residents in affected areas should begin storm surge flooding preparations immediately and assemble disaster supplies. If evacuation orders are issued for your area, leave immediately. Failure to heed evacuation orders may result in loss of life.

In addition to storm surge, expect 3-6 inches of rain, with localized higher amounts, which could lead to moderate flooding. Winds are forecast to be 10-15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph, with a potential for hazardous winds up to 57 mph. Efforts to protect property from wind damage should be underway. Tornadoes are not expected.

For more information and updates, visit NWS Tallahassee at weather.gov/tallahassee, the Florida Division of Emergency Management at floridadisaster.org, and Wakulla County Emergency Management at wcso.org/emergency-management. The Storm Surge Watch is effective until 10:00 PM UTC tonight.