Storm Surge Watch Issued for Okaloosa Coastal Areas

Residents in Okaloosa Coastal areas, including Destin, Eglin AFB, and Fort Walton Beach, are advised to take immediate action as a Storm Surge Watch has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile, AL. This watch indicates the possibility of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland, with a peak storm surge inundation potential of 4-7 feet above ground from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

A Hurricane Watch is also in effect, meaning hurricane-force winds are possible within the next 48 hours. Peak winds are forecast to be 45-60 mph with gusts up to 80 mph, beginning Friday afternoon and lasting until Saturday morning. Significant wind damage is possible, including damage to roofing, siding, and mobile homes, along with widespread power and communication outages. Efforts to protect life and property should be underway now.

Evacuation preparations for life-threatening storm surge flooding, potentially greater than 6 feet above ground, should begin immediately. If evacuation orders are given for your area, you must leave. Failure to heed evacuation orders may result in the loss of life. Assemble disaster supplies and know your evacuation route. Major flooding from heavy rain (4-8 inches, with locally higher amounts) is also likely, prompting evacuations and rescues. Heed any flood watches and warnings.

Additionally, there is a potential for a few tornadoes. If your shelter is vulnerable, prepare to relocate to a safe shelter before hazardous weather arrives. If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly.

For evacuation and shelter information, contact Okaloosa County EMA at 850-651-7150 or visit myokaloosa.com/emergency-management. For storm surge threat graphics and other storm impacts, visit www.weather.gov/mob. This alert is effective immediately, issued October 7 at 11:09 AM CDT, and expires October 7 at 7:15 PM UTC.