Storm Surge Watch Issued for Port Saint Joe, Cape San Blas

A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Port Saint Joe and Cape San Blas, effective October 7 at 2:00 PM EDT, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee. Residents in these coastal Gulf areas should prepare for life-threatening storm surge flooding and dangerous winds.

The NWS forecasts a potential for 4-7 feet of storm surge above ground in surge-prone areas, with the possibility of flooding exceeding 6 feet above ground. This life-threatening surge is expected from Friday morning until Saturday morning. Evacuation preparations should be underway. Leave immediately if evacuation orders are issued for your area.

Winds are projected at 30-40 mph with gusts up to 50 mph, with a potential for winds reaching 58 to 73 mph. Significant damage to roofing, siding, and mobile homes is possible, along with downed trees and impassable roads due to debris. Prepare for significant wind damage and complete all preparations before hazardous winds begin.

Additional rainfall of 4-8 inches, with locally higher amounts, is expected, posing a moderate flooding risk. Heed any flood watches and warnings. The NWS indicates an unfavorable situation for tornadoes at this time. For more information, visit weather.gov/tallahassee or floridadisaster.org.