Extreme Storm Surge Warning for Coastal Gulf: Evacuate Immediately

Coastal Gulf residents, particularly in Port Saint Joe and Cape San Blas, are under an Extreme Storm Surge Warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL. This warning is effective immediately, October 8, 2026, at 11:06 AM EDT, and expires at 7:15 PM UTC on the same day. Life-threatening storm surge of 4-7 feet above ground is possible from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

Evacuation efforts should be completed immediately. Do not delay, as driving conditions will become unsafe. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave to avoid being cut off from emergency services. Extensive impacts are expected, including structural damage, roads washing out, and areas becoming uninhabitable. Wind gusts up to 55 mph are also anticipated, with potential for damage to property and power outages. Tornadoes are also possible. Listen for tornado watches and warnings and be ready to shelter quickly if one is issued. A Flood Watch is also in effect, with 3-6 inches of additional rain expected, leading to potential major flooding. Heed all flood watches and warnings.

For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee, Florida Division of Emergency Management, or Gulf County Emergency Management.