URGENT: Life-Threatening Storm Surge and Extreme Winds for Okaloosa Coastal

A Storm Surge Warning and Tropical Storm Warning remain in effect for Okaloosa Coastal, including Destin, Eglin AFB, and Fort Walton Beach, as of 1:02 AM CDT on October 10. The National Weather Service in Mobile, AL, has issued an "Extreme" severity alert, urging immediate action.

Life-threatening storm surge of 3-5 feet above ground is possible in surge-prone areas, particularly around high tide. Evacuations and flood preparations should be complete; residents should remain sheltered in safe locations and not venture outside. Potential for wind greater than 110 mph is expected, with peak winds of 35-45 mph and gusts to 60 mph through the next few hours. Catastrophic wind damage is possible.

Residents must shelter from life-threatening wind immediately. Be ready to move to the safest place inside your shelter if necessary. No additional significant rainfall is forecast, but major flooding from heavy rain remains a possibility. 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 storm surge threat graphics and other storm impacts, visit www.weather.gov/mob. This alert is effective until 9:15 AM UTC on October 10.