Storm Surge Watch Issued for Santa Rosa Coastal: Life-Threatening Inundation Possible

A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Santa Rosa Coastal, including Bagdad, Gulf Breeze, and Navarre, by the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile AL, effective October 7 at 11:09 AM CDT. Life-threatening storm surge inundation of 4-7 feet above ground is possible from Friday morning until Saturday morning. Evacuation preparations should be underway, and residents are advised to assemble disaster supplies and know their evacuation routes. Leave immediately if evacuation orders are given for your area.

Hurricane-force winds, with peak gusts up to 110 mph, are possible Friday afternoon until early Saturday morning. Extensive damage to roofs, mobile homes, and trees is anticipated. Power and communications outages are likely. Efforts to protect life and property should be rigorously underway, and preparations must be completed before winds become hazardous.

Major flooding from 6-10 inches of rain is also forecast, with potential for widespread evacuations and rescues. Rivers and small waterways may overflow, and floodwaters could enter numerous structures. Heed all flood watches and warnings. The NWS also indicates a favorable situation for a few tornadoes. If a tornado warning is issued, be prepared 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.