Tropical storm conditions are beginning along the northern Gulf Coast as Hurricane Isaias, still a Category 3 with 120 mph winds, moves to within 145 miles of Pensacola. A Tornado Watch is now in effect, and the National Hurricane Center says preparations should be finished in the next couple of hours, ahead of landfall this evening.
Isaias held its strength over the past three hours, and the outer bands are now reaching the coast. A gust of 47 mph was recorded at Dauphin Island, Alabama.
Here is what changed since the 10 a.m. update:
Tropical storm conditions have begun along the coast. At 10 a.m., they were still a few hours away.
Tornado Watch: Now in effect. The greatest risk is east of the center, which includes us.
Closer: The center is 145 miles south of Pensacola, down from 195, and moving north-northeast at 16 mph.
Rain: NWS Mobile trimmed its local forecast to another 3 to 6 inches, with more in spots. It was 4 to 8 inches this morning.
Same: 120 mph winds, Category 3, with landfall this evening along the western Florida Panhandle. Hurricane-force winds reach 35 miles from the center, and storm surge holds at 6 to 9 feet from the Alabama line to Grayton Beach.
For Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Eglin, NWS Mobile’s 1 p.m. forecast holds at sustained 90 to 110 mph, and says to plan for Category 3 force or higher. Hurricane-force winds arrive early this evening and last until early Saturday.
Okaloosa Island water and sewer were shut off at noon.
This is the time to be in your safe room or shelter. If a tornado warning is issued, move to an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. Do not go outside during the eye. The winds will return quickly from the other direction.
For evacuation and shelter questions, call Okaloosa County Emergency Management at 850-651-7150.
The Hurricane Center is issuing hourly updates, with the next full advisory at 4 p.m. Follow the storm on our Isaias storm center, and read the full NHC advisory here.
Written and reported by Emerald Coast Connected.