Extreme Storm Surge Warning for Santa Rosa Coastal: Evacuate Immediately

A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for Santa Rosa Coastal areas, including Bagdad, Gulf Breeze, and Navarre, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile, AL, effective immediately as of October 8 at 4:04 PM CDT. This warning indicates a life-threatening storm surge is possible, with peak inundation potentially reaching 4-7 feet above ground, and a threat of greater than 6 feet above ground.

Evacuation efforts should be completed urgently. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave immediately to avoid being cut off from emergency services. The window of concern for storm surge is from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

Alongside the storm surge, equivalent Category 1 Hurricane force winds are forecast, with peak winds of 75-95 mph and gusts up to 115 mph. Hurricane force winds are expected from Friday afternoon until early Saturday morning. Extensive damage to property and widespread power outages are anticipated. Plan for life-threatening wind conditions and move to safe shelter before winds become hazardous.

A Flood Watch is also in effect, with 4-8 inches of rain expected, leading to potential major flooding. Emergency plans should include the possibility of evacuations and rescues due to heavy rain. Furthermore, the situation is favorable for several tornadoes, some potentially intense. Those in manufactured homes or on boats are urged to relocate to safe shelter. 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 threat graphics, visit www.weather.gov/mob.