Hurricane Isaias Strengthens to Category 3, Local Areas Face Warnings
Hurricane Isaias has strengthened to a Category 3, threatening Southeast Louisiana and South Mississippi with wind, rain, and life-threatening storm surge today and tonight. Prepare for impacts and follow official guidance.
NEW ORLEANS, LA – October 9, 2026 – Residents in Southeast Louisiana and South Mississippi should prepare for significant impacts as Hurricane Isaias has strengthened to a dangerous Category 3 storm. The National Weather Service in New Orleans reports the hurricane is expected to make landfall on the Western Florida Panhandle coast this evening.
A Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Warning are in effect for Southern Jackson Parish. A Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch are active for Northern Jackson. Eastern Orleans, Lower Plaquemines, Lower St. Bernard, Southeast St. Tammany, Southern Hancock, and Southern Harrison are under a Storm Surge Warning and Tropical Storm Warning. Northern Hancock and Northern Harrison are under a Tropical Storm Warning.
Hurricane Isaias, with 120 mph winds, is located approximately 240 miles southeast of New Orleans, moving north-northeast at 16 mph. Anticipated impacts include tropical storm force wind gusts, locally heavy rainfall, and storm surge of 3 to 5 feet for coastal areas from the mouth of the Mississippi River to the Pearl River (excluding Lake Pontchartrain) and all of coastal Mississippi. These impacts are most likely today into tonight.
Protect against hazardous winds in coastal Mississippi from Ocean Springs eastward, with potential for damage to structures, downed limbs, and power outages. Life-threatening storm surge with significant impacts is expected for all coastal locations in Mississippi and areas outside the hurricane risk reduction system in southeast Louisiana from the Pearl River south to the mouth of the Mississippi. Expect inundation, road closures, and major beach erosion.
Follow advice from local officials regarding evacuations. Stay inside and away from windows. Keep a battery-powered radio, charged cell phone, and flashlight ready. If you are in a flood-prone area, be prepared for rapidly rising water levels. The next update is expected around 5 PM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.
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