Hurricane Isaias Expected to Make Landfall Tonight, Major Impacts Possible

Residents in coastal and inland areas of southwest Alabama, northwest Florida, south central Alabama, and inland southeast Mississippi must take immediate action as Major Hurricane Isaias is expected to make landfall on the western Florida Panhandle coast this evening, Friday, October 9.

The National Weather Service in Mobile, AL, has issued a Tropical Cyclone Local Statement upgrading the Tropical Storm Watch to a Tropical Storm Warning for Choctaw County. A Hurricane Warning and Storm Surge Warning are in effect for coastal and central areas of Baldwin, Mobile, Escambia, Okaloosa, and Santa Rosa counties. Hurricane Warnings also cover inland areas of Baldwin, Conecuh, Covington, Escambia, Mobile, Okaloosa, and Santa Rosa. Tropical Storm Warnings are in effect for Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Crenshaw, George, Greene, Monroe, Washington, and Wilcox counties. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Perry, Stone, and Wayne counties.

Isaias is currently located about 210 miles south-southeast of Mobile, AL, moving north-northeast at 16 mph with sustained winds of 120 mph. Life-threatening storm surge of 6 to 9 feet above normally dry ground is possible along the western Florida Panhandle coast. Damaging hurricane-force winds (74-110 mph, potentially stronger) are expected in warning areas, leading to widespread power outages and downed trees. Heavy rainfall of 4 to 8 inches, with isolated totals up to 12 inches, could cause significant flooding. An increased risk of tornadoes is present this afternoon into tonight, particularly in the western Florida Panhandle and south central Alabama.

Evacuation orders have been issued in some coastal counties. Residents should check with their local emergency management agencies for the latest information. Complete all preparations to protect life and property immediately. If relocating, leave as early as possible. Do not disregard evacuation orders, as emergency services may be unable to respond during severe conditions. Monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather radio, or local news for official storm information.