URGENT: Storm Surge Warning for Okaloosa Coastal Areas, Evacuate Immediately if Ordered

Okaloosa Coastal residents, including Destin, Eglin AFB, and Fort Walton Beach, are under an immediate Storm Surge Warning issued by the National Weather Service Mobile AL as of October 7 at 9:53 PM CDT. Life-threatening storm surge flooding of greater than 6 feet above ground is possible. Evacuation efforts should be completed now. Leave immediately if evacuation orders are given for your area to avoid being cut off from emergency services.

A Hurricane Warning is also in effect, with potential for winds of 74 to 110 mph. Life-threatening wind impacts are expected, with peak gusts up to 95 mph possible from Friday afternoon until early Saturday morning. Rigorous preparations to protect life and property should be underway now, with considerable wind damage expected. Power and communications outages are likely.

Additionally, 4-8 inches of rain could lead to major flooding, and the situation is favorable for a few tornadoes. Heed all flood watches and warnings. For evacuation and shelter information, contact Okaloosa County EMA at 850-651-7150 or visit myokaloosa.com/emergency-management. For more information, visit www.weather.gov/mob. This warning is effective until October 8, 2026, 6:00 AM UTC.