Hurricane Isaias strengthened into a Category 3 storm Thursday, becoming the first major hurricane of an unusually quiet Atlantic season. Forecasters expect landfall Friday night between Mobile Bay, Alabama, and Destin, Florida, with storm surge of 6 to 9 feet, damaging winds, flooding, and possible tornadoes. Pensacola Beach and Gulf Islands National Seashore are listed among the areas most at risk.
Sen. Rick Scott urged residents in evacuation zones to leave immediately, calling it their last chance to prepare. He said he spoke with President Donald Trump, who assured him FEMA would respond after the storm. The system is expected to weaken once inland but could still bring strong winds and rain as far north as Atlanta, so travelers across the Southeast should check conditions before heading out.
Here on the Suncoast, the strike zone sits well north of us, which makes this a good moment to review your own hurricane plan. Confirm your evacuation zone, restock water and batteries, and keep an eye on the forecast through the weekend. If you have plans in the Panhandle, call ahead before you drive. Are you and your family fully stocked for the rest of storm season?
