Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Marianna: Prepare for Severe Weather

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Marianna, Jackson County, effective immediately from the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee. Residents should act now to complete preparations before hazardous conditions begin. This warning was issued today, October 8, at 11:06 AM EDT and expires at 7:15 PM UTC (3:15 PM EDT).

Marianna is expected to experience winds of 10-20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph, with potential for sustained winds of 39 to 57 mph. Prepare for limited wind damage, including to porches, awnings, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Large tree limbs may break, and some trees could snap or uproot, particularly in areas with shallow-rooted trees. Scattered power and communications outages are possible. Efforts to protect property should be underway.

A Flood Watch is in effect, with 2-4 inches of rain expected, and locally higher amounts. This poses a potential for major flooding. Emergency plans should include the possibility of evacuations and rescues. Heed all flood watches and warnings; failure to act could result in serious injury or loss of life. Major rainfall flooding may prompt evacuations, and rivers and small streams could overflow. Floodwaters may enter structures, and roads could become impassable.

The situation is favorable for tornadoes, with a potential for several, some possibly intense. Those 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. Scattered tornadoes could cause significant damage, power loss, and communications failures. For more information, visit weather.gov/tallahassee or floridadisaster.org.