Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Inland Jefferson County: Act Now

Residents of Inland Jefferson County, including Monticello and Wacissa, must take immediate action as a Tropical Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee, FL, effective October 9 at 5:05 PM EDT. This warning expires October 10 at 1:15 AM EDT.

Prepare for hazardous winds between 10-20 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph, and potential damage to property. Efforts to protect property should be underway now. Complete all preparations before winds become hazardous. Limited wind impacts include damage to lightweight structures and possible scattered power outages.

A Flood Watch is in effect, with an additional 3-6 inches of rain expected, and locally higher amounts. Emergency plans should include the potential for major flooding; evacuations and rescues are likely. Heed all flood watches and warnings, as failure to take action could result in serious injury or loss of life. Rivers and tributaries may overflow, and many roads could become impassable.

A Tornado Watch is also in effect, indicating a very favorable situation for tornadoes, with the potential for many, 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. Widespread damage from tornadoes, including structural failure and power loss, is possible.

For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee at weather.gov/tallahassee, the Florida Division of Emergency Management at floridadisaster.org, and Jefferson County Emergency Management at jeffersoncountyfl.gov/p/county-departments/emergency-management.