URGENT: Life-Threatening Storm Surge and Hurricane Force Winds Expected for Santa Rosa Coastal

SANTA ROSA COASTAL, FL - A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for Santa Rosa Coastal, including Bagdad, Gulf Breeze, and Navarre, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile AL, effective immediately as of 4:14 AM CDT on October 8, 2026. This warning signifies an extreme and immediate threat to life and property.

Residents in surge-prone areas should anticipate life-threatening storm surge flooding of 4-7 feet above ground, with a potential for greater than 6 feet. The NWS strongly advises immediate evacuation if orders are given for your area to avoid being cut off from emergency services. Evacuation efforts should be completed before driving conditions become unsafe. The window of concern for storm surge is from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

Hurricane force winds, equivalent to a Category 1 or 2 hurricane, are expected with peak gusts up to 105 mph. These dangerous winds are anticipated from Friday afternoon until Friday evening. Prepare for considerable wind damage, including extensive roof damage, severe mobile home damage, and widespread power and communication outages. Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. A Flood Watch is also in effect, with 4-8 inches of rain possible, leading to major flooding. Additionally, the situation is favorable for several tornadoes, with some possibly intense. Listen for tornado watches and warnings and be ready to shelter quickly.

For evacuation and shelter information, contact Santa Rosa County EMA at 850-983-5360 or visit www.santarosa.fl.gov/emergency. For storm surge threat graphics and other storm impacts, visit www.weather.gov/mob. The alert expires at 12:15 PM UTC on October 8, 2026.