Storm Surge Watch Issued for Coastal Taylor County: Prepare for Life-Threatening Inundation

Coastal Taylor County residents, including Keaton Beach and Steinhatchee, are under a Storm Surge Watch as of 11:04 AM EDT today, October 7, issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee. Life-threatening storm surge inundation of 2-4 feet above ground is possible between Friday morning and Saturday morning. This means rising water moving inland from the coastline, posing a significant threat to life and property.

Preparations for storm surge flooding should be underway immediately. Residents in surge-prone areas should assemble disaster supplies and know their evacuation routes. If evacuation orders are issued for your area, leave promptly; failure to do so may result in loss of life. Moderate rainfall flooding of 2-4 inches is also anticipated, which could lead to significant impacts including impassable roads and potential evacuations. Heed any flood watches and warnings.

Winds are forecast to be below tropical storm force, with peaks of 10-15 mph and gusts up to 30 mph, though the potential for winds of 39-57 mph exists. Efforts to protect property from limited wind damage should be completed now. Scattered power and communication outages are possible. Tornadoes are not expected at this time. For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee, Florida Division of Emergency Management, or Taylor County Emergency Management.