Extreme Storm Surge Warning for Coastal Gulf, Act Immediately

Coastal Gulf residents, specifically in Port Saint Joe and Cape San Blas, are under an Extreme Storm Surge Warning issued by the NWS Tallahassee, effective immediately at 10:57 PM EDT on October 9. This life-threatening storm surge could bring 3-5 feet of water above ground in surge-prone areas, with impacts unfolding through Saturday morning. All flood preparations and ordered evacuations should be complete, and evacuees should be in shelters well away from potential flooding.

Alongside the storm surge, an Immediate Storm Surge Warning is in effect. Peak winds are forecasted at 35-45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph, continuing through the next few hours. Hazardous wind of equivalent tropical storm force is expected. Last-minute efforts to protect property should now be complete. Residents must shelter from hazardous wind immediately.

A Flood Watch is active, with an additional 1 inch of rain expected. This could lead to major flooding, prompting evacuations and rescues. Heed all flood watches and warnings. A Tornado Watch is also in effect, indicating a favorable situation for several tornadoes. Remain sheltered and be prepared to move to the safest place within your shelter if a tornado warning is issued.

This warning expires at 7:00 AM UTC on October 10. For more information, visit the NWS Tallahassee at weather.gov/tallahassee, the Florida Division of Emergency Management at floridadisaster.org, or Gulf County Emergency Management at gulfcounty-fl.gov/county_government/emergency_management.