Extreme Storm Surge Warning for Okaloosa Coastal Areas

A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for Okaloosa Coastal areas, including Destin, Eglin AFB, and Fort Walton Beach, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile AL, effective immediately as of October 9 at 10:00 AM CDT. This warning indicates an extreme threat to life and property.

Residents in affected areas must shelter from life-threatening wind and storm surge. Catastrophic wind damage is expected with peak winds of 90-110 mph and gusts up to 135 mph, equivalent to a Category 2 Hurricane, starting early this evening until early Saturday morning. Wind greater than 110 mph is possible. Remain indoors in the safest part of your shelter.

Life-threatening storm surge of 6-9 feet above ground is possible through Saturday morning. All ordered evacuations should be complete; evacuees should be in shelters well away from surge areas. If necessary, move to upper floors to escape rising water. A Flood Watch is also in effect, with an additional 4-8 inches of rain expected, leading to potential major flooding. Heed all flood watches and warnings.

Several tornadoes are also possible. Move quickly to the safest place within your shelter if a tornado warning is issued. For evacuation and shelter information, contact Okaloosa County EMA at 850-651-7150 or visit myokaloosa.com/emergency-management. For storm threat graphics, visit www.weather.gov/mob. This alert expires October 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM UTC.