Bay County Issues Voluntary Evacuation

Updated October 8, 2026, at 10:35 a.m. Central

PANAMA CITY, Fla. — Bay County has issued a voluntary evacuation order, effective immediately, for residents and visitors in Evacuation Zones A and B, along with anyone staying in a mobile or manufactured home anywhere in the county, ahead of Hurricane Isaias.

County officials strongly encourage those affected to leave as soon as they can safely do so, before conditions deteriorate or roads become impassable.

Storm Surge and Flooding Threats

According to the county’s release, Coastal Bay County is under Hurricane and Storm Surge Warnings, with 4–7 feet of storm surge possible in surge-prone areas Friday morning through Saturday morning.

Heavy rainfall could worsen flooding because the ground is already saturated. Areas of concern include Lower Grand Lagoon, Bear Creek, neighborhoods along tributaries feeding into the bay and other historically flood-prone locations.

Flooding could block roads, interrupt utilities and delay emergency response. Never drive through flooded roadways.

Bozeman Shelter Opens at 3 p.m.

Deane Bozeman School, 13410 Highway 77 in Panama City, will open as a shelter at 3 p.m. Thursday, October 8.

Bring pillows, blankets, medications, medical supplies and other essential personal items. Public shelters may be crowded and noisy and provide fewer comforts than a home or hotel.

People bringing pets should bring a secure carrier or crate, leash, food, water, medications and vaccination records. Owners remain responsible for their animals’ care.