Isaias Evacuations: Florida & Alabama Coasts Under Threat

Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for coastal areas of Florida and Alabama as Hurricane Isaias, a Category 3 storm, intensifies and churns toward the Gulf Coast. Forecasters predict the storm will bring severe impacts, including up to 9 feet of storm surge to parts of Florida, dangerous winds, torrential rain, and the potential for tornadoes.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Alabama Governor Kay Ivey have declared states of emergency for numerous counties in the storm's projected path. Governor Ivey issued a mandatory evacuation order for all non-residents, tourists, and visitors in Baldwin County, which includes Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Dauphin Island in Mobile County also faces a mandatory evacuation.

"We often hear in emergency management: Hope for the best. Prepare for the worst. That is the approach we need with this particular storm system," Governor Ivey said in a video message. Governor DeSantis ordered evacuations for Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton, Franklin, and Gulf counties, urging residents to prepare for significant impacts, including widespread power outages.

Escambia County Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore warned, "Your time for prep is coming to an end very fast." Emergency manager for Escambia County, Travis Tompkins, emphasized the need for residents in low-lying areas and barrier islands, such as Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key, to evacuate. Residents in Central Florida are also advised to secure properties and review emergency plans.

State agencies are mobilizing resources. The Florida Highway Patrol has more than 300 troopers ready to support evacuations and emergency response. The Florida Department of Health is preparing over 100 ambulances for patient transportation. Wildlife and emergency response teams have staged boats, high-water vehicles, and aircraft for search-and-rescue operations.