URGENT: Life-Threatening Storm Surge and Extreme Winds for South Walton

SOUTH WALTON, FL – A Storm Surge Warning is in effect for South Walton, issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL today, October 9, at 5:05 PM EDT. This warning, with an immediate urgency and extreme severity, impacts Santa Rosa Beach, Sandestin, and Freeport. It remains effective until 1:15 AM UTC on October 10.

Residents in affected areas must shelter immediately from life-threatening wind and storm surge. Peak winds of 55-70 mph with gusts up to 90 mph are forecast until early Saturday morning, with potential for wind exceeding 110 mph. Life-threatening storm surge of 6-9 feet above ground is possible through Saturday morning. All ordered evacuations should be complete, and evacuees should be in safe shelters. Move to upper floors if water rises. Do not venture outside.

A Flood Watch and Tornado Watch are also in effect. Additional rainfall of 1-3 inches is expected, with locally higher amounts, leading to potential major flooding. Many evacuations and rescues are likely. A very favorable situation for many tornadoes exists; move quickly to the safest place within your shelter if a tornado warning is issued. For more information, visit weather.gov/tallahassee, floridadisaster.org, and co.walton.fl.us/1063/Emergency-Management.