Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Coastal Franklin, Immediate Action Required

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Coastal Franklin County, including Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle, and Alligator Point, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee. This warning is effective immediately, as of October 9 at 11:05 AM EDT, and expires at 7:15 PM UTC today. Residents in these areas must act now to secure property, shelter from life-threatening storm surge, and prepare for extensive flooding and potential tornadoes.

Coastal Franklin is expected to experience tropical storm force winds of 30-40 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. Efforts to protect property, such as securing awnings and lightweight objects, should be underway now. Life-threatening storm surge of 4-6 feet above ground is possible through Saturday morning. Flood preparations and ordered evacuations should be complete, and evacuees should be in safe shelters. A Flood Watch is in effect, with an additional 4-8 inches of rain expected, leading to extensive flooding that may necessitate evacuations and rescues. The NWS also warns of a very favorable situation for many tornadoes, some possibly intense. Residents in manufactured homes or on boats should relocate to safe shelter. Listen for tornado watches and warnings, and be ready to shelter quickly if a warning is issued.

For the latest updates and detailed forecasts, visit the NWS Tallahassee website at weather.gov/tallahassee, the Florida Division of Emergency Management at floridadisaster.org, and Franklin County Emergency Management at franklinemergencymanagement.com.