Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Inland Franklin; Prepare for Severe Impacts

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Inland Franklin County, effective immediately from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Tallahassee, FL, as of October 9 at 11:05 AM EDT. This warning remains in effect until October 9 at 7:15 PM UTC (3:15 PM EDT).

Residents in Inland Franklin County must take immediate action to complete all preparations. Winds are forecast to reach 15-25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph, with potential for wind speeds of 39 to 57 mph. Prepare for limited wind damage, including potential damage to porches, awnings, and unanchored mobile homes. Expect many large tree limbs to break and scattered power outages. Hazardous driving conditions are anticipated on bridges and elevated roadways.

A Flood Watch is in effect, with additional rainfall of 4-8 inches, and locally higher amounts, expected. The NWS warns of potential for major flooding, which may prompt evacuations and rescues. Heed all flood watches and warnings; failure to act could result in serious injury or loss of life. Rivers and tributaries may overflow their banks, and flood waters could enter many structures. Roads and bridges may become impassable.

The tornado threat has increased significantly, with a very favorable situation for many tornadoes, some potentially intense. Those in manufactured homes or boats should relocate to safe shelter now. Listen for tornado watches and warnings and be ready to shelter quickly. Tornadoes can cause extensive damage, including roof and wall failures, and widespread power and communications outages.

There is little to no storm surge flooding expected. Monitor NWS Tallahassee at weather.gov/tallahassee, the Florida Division of Emergency Management at floridadisaster.org, and Franklin County Emergency Management at franklinemergencymanagement.com for further updates.