Storm Surge Warning Issued for Coastal Wakulla: Evacuate If Ordered

A Storm Surge Warning is in effect for Coastal Wakulla, including Saint Marks and Panacea, issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL today, October 8, 2026, at 8:01 AM EDT. This warning indicates an immediate and extreme threat of life-threatening storm surge.

Residents in affected areas should prepare for 4-6 feet of storm surge inundation above ground, primarily between Friday morning and Saturday morning. Evacuation efforts and flood preparations should be completed now before conditions become unsafe. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave immediately to avoid being cut off from emergency services.

While sustained winds are expected to remain below tropical storm force (10-20 mph with gusts to 35 mph), a Flood Watch is also in effect. An additional 2-4 inches of rain is forecast, with potential for localized higher amounts, which could lead to moderate flooding. Heed any flood watches and warnings.

The NWS also indicates a potential for several tornadoes. Be ready to shelter quickly if a tornado warning is issued.

For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee at https://www.weather.gov/tallahassee, the Florida Division of Emergency Management at https://www.floridadisaster.org, or Wakulla County Emergency Management at http://www.wcso.org/emergency-management. This alert expires October 8, 2026, at 4:15 PM UTC.