Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Coastal Franklin; Prepare Now

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Coastal Franklin, including Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle, and Alligator Point, as of October 7 at 2:09 PM EDT by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL. This watch indicates that tropical storm conditions are possible within the specified area.

Residents should prepare for hazardous winds of 39 to 57 mph, with peak wind gusts up to 35 mph. Efforts to protect property, such as securing lightweight objects and addressing potential damage to porches and awnings, should be underway. Complete all preparations before winds become hazardous.

Life-threatening storm surge of 3-5 feet above ground is possible from Friday morning until Saturday morning. Storm surge flooding preparations should be underway, including assembling disaster supplies and knowing your evacuation route. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave immediately. Failure to heed evacuation orders may result in loss of life.

Moderate flooding rain is also anticipated, with additional rainfall amounts of 4-8 inches, and locally higher amounts. Emergency plans should include the potential for moderate flooding, as evacuations and rescues are possible. Heed any flood watches and warnings.

For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee at weather.gov/tallahassee, the Florida Division of Emergency Management at floridadisaster.org, or Franklin County Emergency Management at franklinemergencymanagement.com. This watch is effective until October 7, 2026, 10:15 PM UTC.