Escambia County Tropical Storm Isaias Update

Escambia County is actively monitoring Tropical Storm Isaias, which is continues to strengthen as it moves northeast today, Oct. 7. Residents are encouraged to monitor the forecast and have multiple ways to receive weather updates.

According to NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Isaias is forecasted to make landfall on the northern Gulf Coast as a hurricane early Saturday morning, Oct. 10. A Hurricane Watch has been issued for Escambia County, and local impacts include high winds and surf, storm surge, rip currents, flash flooding, and tornadoes.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 25 Florida counties in preparation for Tropical Storm Isaias, including Escambia County. The Governor and the Florida State Emergency Response Team are taking precautions now to ensure Florida remains prepared for potential impacts.

Rip Currents

All Escambia County beaches are at a High Risk of rip currents continuing into Sunday, Oct. 11. Life-threatening rip currents are expected during this time, and the surf will be dangerous for all levels of swimmers. For daily flag conditions, visit the Pensacola Beach Lifeguards page on MyEscambia.com or the Pensacola Beach Lifeguards Facebook.

Click here for rip current safety information.

County Preparedness Actions:

• Escambia County Emergency Management staff are actively monitoring 24/7 throughout this event.
• The Emergency Operations Center will be activated at a Level 2 Thursday, Oct. 8 and at a Level 1 Friday, Oct. 9.
• Sand has been made available for the public at multiple locations throughout the county. Click here for details.
• County staff are actively monitoring problem creeks and rivers.
• Escambia County Public Works crews have inspected all county stormwater ponds and have drained water levels where necessary. Crews will continue to monitor stormwater pond levels throughout the week to ensure outfalls are clear.

Important Preparedness Information:

With possible flooding forecast for our area, please do not drive into hazardous flood water and remember to Turn Around Don't Drown. Follow these flood safety tips:

• Get to higher ground - Get out of areas subject to flooding.
• Do not drive into water - Do not drive or walk into flooded areas. It only takes 6" of water to knock you off your feet and 2 feet of water to carry away a vehicle.

Follow these tips to prepare for a storm:

• Know Your Zone - Go to MyEscambia.com/knowyourzone to find out which evacuation zone you are in.
• Know Your Home - Is it newly built - possibly rated for a hurricane? Your safest place may be at home rather than a shelter. Stay tuned to MyEscambia.com for any announcements about shelter openings. For information about preparing your home, visit MyEscambia.com/beready.
• Secure Your Home - Secure any lightweight outside furniture, toys or equipment that could become a projectile in high winds.
• Know Your Plan - Have a disaster plan. If necessary, plan ahead to stay with loved ones, friends or stay at a hotel away from the area.
• Build Your Kit - Residents should have at least seven days' worth of food, water, and basic supplies on hand for every member of your household, including pets. Click here for a list of what to include in your kit.
• Stay Informed - Pay extra attention to local weather reports until the storm has moved through the area. Be sure to keep your weather radio on and your cell phone charged to ensure you can receive weather alerts.

Residents are encouraged to remain weather aware and continue monitoring the forecast for updates. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings and know your safe place ahead of time.

For more information, monitor the local media and legitimate online and social media sources like Escambia County Emergency Management and US National Weather Service Mobile.

More information on what to do before, during and after a storm is available online at MyEscambia.com/BeReady. For the latest news and updates on emergencies impacting the community, like Escambia County Emergency Management on Facebook and follow @EscambiaBeReady on Instagram.