Major Hurricane Isaias Threatens Florida Panhandle, Southeast AL, SW GA
Major Hurricane Isaias threatens the Florida Panhandle, Southeast AL, and Southwest GA, prompting urgent warnings for life-threatening storm surge, dangerous winds, extensive flooding, and tornadoes. Residents must finalize preparations immediately.
Residents in the Florida Panhandle, Florida Big Bend, southeastern Alabama, and southwestern Georgia must finalize hurricane preparations immediately as Hurricane Isaias has strengthened into a major hurricane. The National Weather Service in Tallahassee FL issued a Tropical Cyclone Local Statement today, October 9, at 8:37 AM EDT, warning of life-threatening storm surge, dangerous winds, extensive rainfall flooding, and a heightened tornado risk.
Hurricane Isaias is currently located approximately 250 miles south-southwest of Panama City and 250 miles southwest of Apalachicola, moving north-northeast at 15 mph with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph. Landfall is anticipated later tonight along the Florida Panhandle or Southern Alabama coast as a dangerous hurricane.
A Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Warning are in effect for Coastal Bay and South Walton counties. A Hurricane Warning is active for Central Walton and North Walton. Life-threatening inundation of 6 to 9 feet above ground is forecast for the coastal Panhandle to Grayton Beach. Conditions are expected to deteriorate across the Florida Panhandle as early as this morning, extending inland later this afternoon.
Significant rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 15 inches, are expected, potentially causing isolated to scattered flash flooding. A Flood Watch is in effect through Saturday evening. A heightened tornado risk is also present across the Florida Panhandle and Western FL Big Bend today and tonight, extending to Southeast AL and Southwest GA late today and Saturday.
Follow all evacuation orders from local officials. Complete all preparations to protect life and property. Ensure cell phones are charged. Do not drive through flooded roadways. If a Tornado Warning is issued, seek shelter quickly in an interior room away from windows. Monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather Radio, or local news outlets for updates. The next update is expected around 12 PM EDT today, October 9.
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