Tropical Storm Warning for Central Walton: Act Now!

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Central Walton, including Red Bay, effective immediately until 7:15 PM UTC on October 8th. The National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee FL urges residents to complete all remaining efforts to protect life and property as soon as possible and move to safe shelter before hazardous winds arrive.

Significant wind impacts are expected, with peak winds of 25-35 mph and gusts up to 45 mph, with a potential for winds reaching 58 to 73 mph. This could lead to damage to roofing, siding, porches, and mobile homes, especially if unanchored. Expect several large trees to be snapped or uprooted, making some roads impassable due to debris. Scattered power and communications outages are also anticipated.

A Flood Watch is in effect, with 3-6 inches of rain expected, and locally higher amounts. This poses a potential for major flooding, and evacuations and rescues are likely. Heed any flood watches and warnings. Rivers and tributaries may overflow, and flood waters could enter structures. Driving conditions will become dangerous, with many road and bridge closures. There is also a potential for several tornadoes, some possibly intense. Those in manufactured homes or on boats should relocate to safe shelter. Listen for tornado watches and warnings and be prepared to shelter quickly.

For more information, visit NWS Tallahassee, Florida Division of Emergency Management, and Walton County Emergency Management.