UPDATE — PANAMA CITY POST-STORM CONDITIONS
Now that Hurricane Isaias has cleared the area, City of Panama City crews are assessing conditions throughout the community.
Crews are checking city streets, inspecting storm drains, clearing debris, and addressing storm-related issues.
Power remains out in many areas, which is also affecting traffic signals. If you do not need to be out this morning, officials are asking residents to continue avoiding unnecessary travel.
Important: If you come to an intersection where the traffic signal is not working, treat it as a 4-way stop.
Residents should remain alert for lingering hazards and follow posted safety guidance.
Normal City services are expected to resume at 8 AM Monday.
Source: City of Panama City — 7 AM, October 10, 2026
October 10, 2026 — 2:11 a.m. Central Update
Isaias becomes post-tropical; flooding and coastal hazards continue
The National Hurricane Center’s 1 a.m. Central advisory reports Isaias is now a post-tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph. Its center is over southern Alabama, moving north at 20 mph.
The coastal Hurricane Warning for Bay County has changed to a Tropical Storm Warning. The Storm Surge Warning remains in effect.
Potential coastal inundation of 2–4 feet above normally dry ground remains possible within the surge warning area, including Bay County, if peak surge coincides with high tide. Tropical storm conditions continue across the warning area. prod-west-nhc.woc.noaa.gov
Flooding and tornado threats continue into Saturday. The regional Flood Watch remains in effect through Saturday evening, and coastal flooding could linger through the day. forecast.weather.gov
Remain in a safe location until conditions improve, keep emergency alerts enabled and never drive through flooded roads. The change in storm classification does not mean the danger has passed.
The next complete NHC advisory is scheduled for 4 a.m. Central.
Sources: National Hurricane Center, Advisory 14A, issued at 1 a.m. CDT October 10; NWS Tallahassee, overnight local statement.
October 9, 2026 — 9:11 p.m. Central Update
Panama City Beach records 83 mph gust; dangerous conditions continue
The National Hurricane Center’s corrected 9 p.m. Central update reports Hurricane Isaias now has maximum sustained winds of 100 mph, remaining a Category 2 hurricane.
A NOAA station in Panama City Beach recorded a wind gust of 83 mph and sustained winds of 72 mph.
The center was approximately 50 miles west-northwest of Panama City, moving north at 19 mph.
Life-threatening storm surge continues along the Gulf Coast as dangerous hurricane conditions and flash flooding spread inland. Remain safely sheltered, keep emergency alerts enabled and stay off flooded roads.
This was the final hourly NHC position update. The next full forecast advisory is scheduled for 10 p.m. Central.
Source: National Hurricane Center, corrected 9 p.m. CDT position update, October 9, 2026.
October 9, 2026 — 8:58 p.m. Central Update
Isaias makes landfall near Destin as a Category 2 hurricane
The National Hurricane Center confirms Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin at approximately 8:30 p.m. Central, with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph.
Life-threatening storm surge continues along the Gulf Coast as dangerous hurricane conditions and flash flooding spread inland.
A NOAA gauge in Panama City Beach reported water levels 5.6 feet above mean higher high water. NHC describes this measurement as an approximation of inundation near the gauge; it does not mean every nearby location has that flooding depth.
A WeatherFlow station near Santa Rosa Sound recorded a 116 mph wind gust, with sustained winds of 91 mph.
Landfall does not mean the danger has passed. Flooding and tornado threats continue overnight. Remain safely sheltered, keep emergency alerts enabled and never drive through flooded roads.
The next complete NHC advisory is scheduled for 10 p.m. Central.
Source: National Hurricane Center, 8:30 p.m. CDT landfall update and 7 p.m. CDT Advisory 13A, October 9, 2026.
October 9, 2026 — 8 p.m. Central NHC Update
Water rising rapidly; dangerous winds and flash flooding spreading inland
The National Hurricane Center reports rapidly rising coastal water levels as dangerous hurricane conditions and life-threatening flash flooding spread inland.
At 8 p.m. Central, Hurricane Isaias had maximum sustained winds of 105 mph, making it a Category 2 hurricane. Its center was approximately 50 miles west of Panama City, moving north at 19 mph.
A NOAA gauge in Panama City Beach reported water levels 5.4 feet above mean higher high water, a reference level based on typical higher high tides. NHC describes this as an approximation of inundation near that gauge; flooding depths will vary by location.
A 102 mph wind gust was reported at Pensacola City Hall.
Storm Surge and Hurricane Warnings remain in effect for Coastal Bay County. Flooding and tornado threats continue overnight, despite the decrease in the storm’s maximum sustained winds.
Remain in safe shelter, keep emergency alerts enabled and never drive through flooded roads.
The next complete NHC advisory is scheduled for 10 p.m. Central.
Source: National Hurricane Center, October 9, 2026, 8 p.m. CDT position update and 7 p.m. CDT Advisory 13A.
October 9, 2026 — 4:42 p.m. Central Update
Tornado threat increasing; coastal flooding and stronger winds developing
The National Weather Service Tallahassee says the tornado threat is increasing across the Florida Big Bend this evening as Hurricane Isaias approaches landfall in the Panhandle.
In its 4:30 p.m. Central / 5:30 p.m. Eastern update, forecasters reported rotating storms offshore. An offshore boundary is gradually moving north, potentially allowing the tornado threat to move onshore over the next several hours. The tornado watch remains in effect.
Flash Flood Warnings are also in effect along portions of the coast near Apalachee Bay, where repeated rainbands are moving over the same areas.
Wind gusts of 35–45 mph are being observed across the Panhandle. Gusts are expected to increase through the evening, particularly within Hurricane Warning areas.
Keep emergency alerts enabled and have your safe place ready. If a Tornado Warning is issued for your location, move immediately to a small interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows. Never drive through flooded roads.
Source: NWS Tallahassee weather update, October 9, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. Eastern / 4:30 p.m. Central.
October 9, 2026 — 4 p.m. Central NHC Update
Isaias nearing landfall; residents urged to seek safe shelter
The National Hurricane Center says conditions are deteriorating quickly within the Hurricane and Storm Surge Warning areas, and residents should be seeking safe shelter now.
Hurricane Isaias remains a Category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 115 mph. At 4 p.m. Central, its center was approximately 90 miles south of Pensacola, moving north at 17 mph.
Landfall is expected along the western Florida Panhandle coast this evening, with little change in strength beforehand. Tropical storm conditions are already occurring within the warning areas.
Storm surge and flooding threats remain serious:
- Alabama–Florida border to Grayton Beach: 6–9 feet of surge.
- Grayton Beach to Indian Pass, including Bay County’s coast: 4–7 feet.
- Indian Pass to Steinhatchee River: 4–6 feet.
These are potential water heights above ground in normally dry coastal areas if peak surge coincides with high tide.
Rainfall totals of 4–8 inches, with localized amounts up to 15 inches, remain possible across the Panhandle and surrounding region. The tornado threat continues this evening and overnight, and into Saturday.
Follow local emergency instructions, keep alerts enabled and never drive through flooded roads. All existing watches and warnings remain unchanged.
The next intermediate advisory is scheduled for 7 p.m. Central, followed by the next complete advisory at 10 p.m. Central.
Source: National Hurricane Center, Advisory 13, issued October 9, 2026, at 4 p.m. CDT.
October 9, 2026 — 3:46 p.m. Central Update
Conditions worsening along the northern Gulf Coast
The National Weather Service reports that weather conditions are quickly worsening along the northern Gulf Coast as Category 3 Hurricane Isaias continues moving toward the coast.
In its 3 p.m. Central update, NWS reported a recent 47 mph wind gust at Navarre Beach, Florida, and a 56 mph gust at NOAA buoy 42012.
Keep emergency alerts enabled, follow local emergency instructions and stay away from flooded roads.
Continue monitoring hurricanes.gov and weather.gov for official updates.
Source: National Weather Service announcement, October 9, 2026, at 4 p.m. Eastern / 3 p.m. Central.
October 9, 2026 — 2 p.m. Central NHC Update
Isaias moves closer; tropical storm conditions spreading onshore
Hurricane Isaias remains a Category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center’s 2 p.m. Central position update.
The center is approximately 125 miles south of Pensacola, moving north-northeast at 17 mph.
Tropical storm conditions are beginning to spread onshore along the northern Gulf Coast. A wind gust of 43 mph was recently reported in Apalachicola.
Keep emergency alerts enabled and continue following local evacuation instructions. Dangerous conditions can occur well away from the storm’s center.
Source: National Hurricane Center position update, issued October 9, 2026, at 2 p.m. CDT.
October 9, 2026 — 1:23 p.m. Central Update
Northwest Florida Beaches Airport suspends commercial operations
Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) suspended commercial operations at 1 p.m. Central today as Hurricane Isaias approaches.
The terminal remains open, but it is not a public shelter. Passengers should contact their airlines directly for flight status, cancellations and rebooking information.
A reopening time has not been announced. The airport will continue monitoring conditions and sharing updates through its official channels.
October 9, 2026 — 1:07 p.m. Central Update
Tropical storm conditions beginning; Isaias remains a Category 3 hurricane
Hurricane Isaias remains a Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds of 120 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center’s 1 p.m. Central advisory.
The center was approximately 145 miles south of Pensacola, moving north-northeast at 16 mph. Landfall is expected this evening, with Isaias at or near major hurricane strength.
Tropical storm conditions are now beginning along portions of the northern Gulf Coast. NHC urges residents in threatened areas to complete preparations against life-threatening storm surge and devastating winds within the next couple of hours.
Updated Storm Surge Forecast
Water could reach these heights above normally dry ground somewhere within the listed areas if peak surge coincides with high tide:
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Alabama–Florida border to Grayton Beach: 6–9 feet.
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Grayton Beach to Indian Pass, including Bay County’s coast: 4–7 feet.
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Indian Pass to Steinhatchee River: 4–6 feet.
Large, dangerous waves can accompany surge. Follow local evacuation instructions and do not wait for rising water to take action.
Wind, Flooding and Tornado Threats
Tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 205 miles from the center. Hurricane conditions are expected within the Hurricane Warning area this evening into early Saturday.
Regional rainfall totals of 4–8 inches, with localized amounts up to 15 inches, could produce considerable flash and urban flooding. Tornado potential continues this afternoon and tonight, with additional risk Saturday.
No changes to watches or warnings were announced. Keep emergency alerts enabled and be ready to move to your safe shelter location if a warning is issued.
The next complete NHC advisory is scheduled for 4 p.m. Central.
Source: National Hurricane Center, Intermediate Advisory 12A, issued October 9, 2026, at 1 p.m. CDT.
October 9, 2026 — 12:55 p.m. Central Update
Verizon announces storm service relief; Bay County included
Verizon is providing Hurricane Isaias service relief for eligible customers October 9–15, 2026.
Active postpaid and eligible small-business customers will receive unlimited domestic calling, texting and data during the relief period.
Affected customers using Verizon’s prepaid and value brands will receive service end-date extensions. These brands include Verizon Prepaid, Straight Talk, Total Wireless, Tracfone, Simple Mobile, Walmart Family Mobile, Page Plus, Net10 and SafeLink.
Eligibility is based on customers’ billing addresses. Included Florida counties are Bay, Escambia, Holmes, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton and Washington.
Customers do not need to enroll. Verizon says relief will apply automatically, and qualifying overage charges from billing cycles that have already closed will be credited automatically.
Visit Verizon’s official Hurricane Isaias relief announcement for eligibility and service details.
Source: Verizon’s Hurricane Isaias announcement, October 8, 2026.
October 9, 2026 — 11:50 a.m. Central Update
Panama City sandbag distribution ends at noon; garbage pickup complete
The City of Panama City will end sandbag distribution at noon today, Friday, October 9, to protect staff as Hurricane Isaias conditions deteriorate. This replaces the previously announced 5 p.m. closing time.
Friday garbage collection routes are complete. Residents should remove blue garbage carts from the roadside and secure them. Bring in or secure other loose outdoor items that could become airborne or block storm drains.
The city urges residents to finish final preparations and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions worsen.
Source: City of Panama City storm update, updated October 9, 2026.
October 9, 2026 — 11:01 a.m. Central Update
Approaching Isaias rainband brings increasing tornado threat
NWS Tallahassee warns that an outer rainband from Hurricane Isaias could bring increasing tornado potential to the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend this afternoon, evening and overnight. Some tornadoes could be strong.
In its 10 a.m. Central update, the weather service reported the band approximately 40–50 miles south of Apalachicola, drifting north. Several storms within the band were already showing strong signs of rotation.
A tornado watch is considered likely this afternoon and evening, but this announcement does not confirm that a watch has been issued.
Residents should have a safe shelter location ready and keep multiple ways to receive weather warnings. The timing graphic accompanying the NWS post indicates when residents should be ready for increased tornado potential, rather than a precise arrival time.
Isaias remains a Category 3 hurricane with 120 mph sustained winds. Wind, storm surge, flooding rain and tornado impacts can extend far from the center.
Source: NWS Tallahassee update dated October 9, 2026, at 11 a.m. Eastern / 10 a.m. Central.
October 9, 2026 — 10:12 a.m. Central Update
Isaias expected to make landfall at or near major hurricane strength this evening
The National Weather Service says the center of Category 3 Hurricane Isaias is expected to reach the western Florida Panhandle coast this evening. Conditions along the Gulf Coast will deteriorate throughout today, before the center arrives.
Isaias is expected to be at or near major hurricane strength at landfall. Extremely dangerous and damaging hurricane-force winds are expected in portions of the Florida Panhandle, southern Alabama and southern Mississippi within the Hurricane Warning area.
Residents should follow local evacuation instructions. Those sheltering in place should have a safe room ready and prepare for long-duration power outages.
Hourly National Hurricane Center updates will begin at 11 a.m. Central. Continue monitoring hurricanes.gov and weather.gov for official forecasts and warnings.
Source: National Weather Service announcement, October 9, 2026.
October 9, 2026 — 9:56 a.m. Central Update
Isaias becomes a Category 3 major hurricane
Hurricane Isaias has strengthened into a Category 3 major hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph, according to a special National Hurricane Center update.
Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters confirmed the increase in strength. At 7:20 a.m. Central, the center was approximately 240 miles south of Pensacola, moving north-northeast at 15 mph.
Residents should finish remaining preparations immediately, follow local evacuation instructions and keep emergency alerts enabled. Dangerous impacts can extend well away from the storm’s center.
The next complete NHC advisory is scheduled for 10 a.m. Central.
Source: National Hurricane Center special update, issued October 9, 2026, at 7:20 a.m. CDT.
October 9, 2026 — 7:50 a.m. Central Update
Panama City residents: Secure garbage carts after pickup
Panama City moved residential garbage collection to 4 a.m. and commercial collection to 3 a.m. today to help crews complete service before storm conditions worsen.
After collection, remove garbage carts from the roadside and secure them. Residents should also secure loose outdoor items and keep debris away from storm drains.
Claw trucks are scheduled to collect yard debris and bulky items through half the day today.
Source: City of Panama City storm preparations and collection notice.
October 9, 2026 — 4 a.m. Central Update
Isaias strengthens to 110 mph; finish preparations now
Hurricane Isaias remains a Category 2 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds increasing to 110 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. Isaias is likely to become a major hurricane this morning.
The storm is moving north-northeast at 15 mph. It is expected to approach the northern Gulf Coast this afternoon and make landfall tonight or early Saturday. Slight weakening is expected before landfall, but Isaias will remain dangerous.
The storm’s wind field has expanded. Tropical-storm-force winds now extend up to 185 miles from the center, compared with 125 miles in the previous advisory. Impacts can occur well away from the eye.
What Panhandle Residents Should Know
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Storm surge: Water could reach 5–7 feet above normally dry ground somewhere between Dauphin Island, Alabama, and Indian Pass, Florida, if peak surge coincides with high tide.
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Rainfall: Regional totals of 4–8 inches, with localized amounts up to 15 inches, could cause flash, urban and river flooding.
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Tornadoes: The threat begins late this afternoon, continues tonight and extends into Saturday.
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Winds: Tropical storm conditions begin later today, ahead of hurricane conditions expected tonight into early Saturday within the Hurricane Warning area.
No changes to watches or warnings were announced. Hurricane and storm surge warnings remain in effect for Coastal Bay County.
Rush preparations to completion this morning, follow local evacuation instructions and keep multiple ways to receive emergency alerts. Do not wait for landfall to take protective action.
The next intermediate advisory is scheduled for 7 a.m. Central, followed by a complete advisory at 10 a.m. Central.
Source: National Hurricane Center, Advisory 11, issued October 9, 2026, at 4 a.m. CDT.
October 9, 2026 — 1 a.m. Central Update
Isaias remains a Category 2 hurricane; warnings unchanged
Hurricane Isaias has maximum sustained winds of 105 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center’s 1 a.m. Central intermediate advisory.
The storm is moving north-northeast at 14 mph, with its center approximately 230 miles south of the mouth of the Mississippi River. NOAA and Air Force Hurricane Hunters are investigating the storm.
No changes to watches or warnings were announced. Hurricane and storm surge warnings remain in effect for affected portions of the northern Gulf Coast.
Residents should complete preparations early Friday morning, follow local evacuation instructions and keep emergency alerts enabled.
The next complete NHC advisory is scheduled for 4 a.m. Central Friday, October 9.
October 8, 2026 — 10:20 p.m. Central Update
Isaias strengthens; major hurricane intensity forecast Friday
Hurricane Isaias is a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds of 105 mph, according to Meteorologist Ross Whitley’s Thursday evening update.
WJHG reports the storm is forecast to reach Category 3 strength Friday morning, then weaken to Category 2 before landfall.
Whitley explains that the wind field could expand as the storm weakens, spreading heavy rain and gusty winds north and east of the center. A feeder rainband could linger into Saturday, increasing flooding and tornado concerns.
Some weakening before landfall would not eliminate the danger from storm surge, flooding, damaging winds and tornadoes.
Follow local evacuation instructions, finish preparations and keep emergency alerts enabled. Stay safe and check on your neighbors.
Watch Ross Whitley’s forecast explanation.
Sources: WJHG-TV and Meteorologist Ross Whitley’s Thursday evening updates.
October 8, 2026 — 6:57 p.m. Central Update
Bayway provides free shelter transportation
Bayway is offering free rides to and from Deane Bozeman School’s storm shelter, located at 13410 Highway 77, Panama City, while the shelter remains active and travel conditions are safe.
To arrange a ride, call 850-769-0557 and select Option 2. Discuss any pet transportation or accessibility needs when calling.
The Panama City Beach–Walton County Connector will suspend service Friday, October 9, at 6 a.m. Other Bayway services will continue on regular schedules unless weather requires additional changes.
Visit Bayway’s website or follow Bayway Transit on Facebook for service updates.
Source: Bayway Transit announcement, October 8, 2026.
October 8, 2026 — 4 p.m. Central Update
Walton mandatory evacuation; delays reported on U.S. 331
Walton County has ordered a mandatory evacuation for Zones A, B and C, effective noon Thursday, October 8.
WJHG also reports significant evacuation traffic on northbound U.S. 331 approaching Interstate 10. Drivers should allow additional travel time and check Florida 511 for current traffic conditions and road closures.
Read Walton County’s evacuation announcement coverage.
Source: WJHG NewsChannel 7.
October 8, 2026 — 3:58 p.m. Central Update
Governor urges preparations; evacuation-route tolls waived
Gov. Ron DeSantis and Florida emergency management officials urged residents to finish preparations for Hurricane Isaias and follow local evacuation orders during Thursday’s briefing in Tallahassee.
The state is preparing for the possibility of Category 3 conditions. This is a preparedness approach, not a statement of the storm’s current strength.
According to CBS12’s briefing recap, tolls have been waived on the Garcon Point Bridge, Spence Parkway and Mid-Bay Bridge to support evacuations and storm response.
Florida is staging generators, fuel, food, water and rescue resources. Residents should prepare for power outages.
Florida’s emergency information hotline: 800-342-3557.
Read the governor’s briefing recap.
Source: CBS12 reporting by Eric Weiss, carried by WGXA.
October 8, 2026 — 2:47 p.m. Central Update
Franklin County issues mandatory evacuation
According to WMBB, Franklin County’s mandatory evacuation took effect at noon Thursday for:
- St. George Island and Dog Island
- Alligator Point and Bald Point
- Mobile homes and RV parks
- Low-lying areas, coastal homes and homes along the water’s edge
A Red Cross evacuation shelter is scheduled to open at 4 p.m. today at the Wakulla Community Center, 318 Shadeville Road, Crawfordville, in neighboring Wakulla County.
Residents bringing pets should bring crates, records, food and leashes.
Source: WMBB News 13, reporting Franklin County’s evacuation announcement.
Isaias Morning Update: Prepare Today— October 8
Hurricane Isaias continues to strengthen. NWS Tallahassee’s 5 a.m. Central update warns of strong winds, storm surge, heavy rainfall and possible tornadoes.
• Tropical-storm-force winds are most likely to arrive Friday afternoon into Friday evening across the Florida Panhandle.
• A Flood Watch covers much of the region Friday afternoon through Saturday evening. Rainfall totals of 3–7 inches are forecast, with isolated amounts near 10 inches.
• Tornadoes are possible Friday afternoon and night, with the threat expanding Saturday.
Complete storm preparations today, with everything ready by Friday morning. Follow local emergency officials for evacuation and shelter announcements.
Source: US National Weather Service Tallahassee Florida.
4 p.m. CT Update — Isaias Nears Hurricane Strength
Tropical Storm Isaias rapidly strengthened Wednesday afternoon and now has maximum sustained winds of 65 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center’s 4 p.m. CT advisory.
Isaias was located near latitude 22.7 North and longitude 92.9 West, moving east-northeast at 8 mph. The storm is forecast to become a hurricane by Thursday morning as it continues toward the northern Gulf Coast.
Coastal Bay County remains under a Hurricane Watch and Storm Surge Watch. Residents should continue monitoring official forecasts and complete storm preparations.
Official updates:
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
As of 1 p.m. CDT Wednesday, October 7, Tropical Storm Isaias continues to strengthen while moving toward the northern Gulf Coast.
The National Hurricane Center reports that Isaias has maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and is moving east-northeast at 8 mph. The storm is forecast to become a hurricane Thursday as it approaches the northern Gulf Coast.
Hurricane Watch Includes Bay County
A Hurricane Watch is in effect along the northern Gulf Coast from Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, to Indian Pass, Florida. This watch area includes Bay County and Panama City.
A Hurricane Watch means hurricane conditions are possible within the designated area, generally within 48 hours. Watches may be upgraded to warnings as the storm moves closer and forecast confidence increases.
A Storm Surge Watch is also in effect from the mouth of the Mississippi River eastward to Yankeetown, Florida.
The storm’s exact track, intensity and eventual point of landfall remain subject to change. Residents should continue monitoring official updates rather than focusing only on the center of the forecast cone, because wind, rain, storm surge and tornado threats can extend well beyond the center.
Potential Local Impacts
The City of Panama City says current forecasts could place the area on the eastern side of the storm. Additional rainfall is possible Friday through Saturday, along with the potential for isolated tornadoes.
Heavy rainfall could increase the risk of flash flooding, particularly in areas where the ground is already saturated from recent rain. Strong winds, coastal flooding and hazardous marine conditions are also possible as Isaias approaches.
State of Emergency Includes Bay County
Governor Ron DeSantis has issued Executive Order 26-202, declaring a state of emergency for 25 Florida counties, including Bay County.
The declaration allows state and local agencies greater flexibility to stage equipment, supplies and other resources in preparation for possible impacts. It is not an evacuation order.
Prepare and Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to review their emergency plans, gather needed supplies, check their flood and evacuation zones and sign up for local emergency notifications through AlertBay.org.
Continue monitoring the National Hurricane Center, National Weather Service Tallahassee, Bay County Emergency Management and local government announcements for updated watches, warnings and protective instructions.
WKGC will continue sharing verified information as conditions and official guidance change.
This report is based on information from the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network, the National Hurricane Center, the City of Panama City and the Executive Office of the Governor of Florida.
