Extreme Storm Surge Warning Issued for Santa Rosa Coastal: Act Now

SANTA ROSA COASTAL, FL – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Mobile, AL has issued an Extreme Storm Surge Warning for Santa Rosa Coastal, effective immediately as of October 9 at 3:55 PM CDT. This warning impacts Bagdad, Gulf Breeze, and Navarre, with life-threatening conditions expected through Saturday morning.

Residents in affected areas should shelter against life-threatening storm surge flooding of greater than 6 feet above ground. All ordered evacuations should be complete, and evacuees should be in shelters well away from storm surge. Remain sheltered in a safe location and do not venture outside. If necessary, move to upper floors to escape rising water. The potential for storm surge inundation is 6-9 feet above ground in surge-prone areas.

Extreme winds, equivalent to a Cat 1 Hurricane, are forecast, with peak winds of 65-85 mph and gusts up to 115 mph possible until early Saturday morning. This is a potential for wind greater than 110 mph. Plan for extreme wind of equivalent CAT 3 hurricane force or higher; last-minute efforts should solely focus on protecting life. Now is the time to shelter from life-threatening wind. Be ready to move to the safest place inside your shelter if necessary.

A Flood Watch remains in effect, with an additional 3-6 inches of rain expected, leading to potential major flooding. Heed any flood watches and warnings. The NWS also indicates a favorable situation for several tornadoes, with significant potential impacts. Move quickly to the safest place within your shelter if a tornado warning is issued.

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. This warning is set to expire on October 10, 2026, at 12:00 AM UTC.