Florida Declares Emergency In 25 Counties As DeSantis Urges Northwest Communities To Prepare For Isaias
By CCN News | Published: Oct 07, 2026 (IST)
By CCN News | Published: Oct 07, 2026 (IST)
Sources: Executive Office of Governor of Florida Ron DeSantis
Florida has declared a state of emergency in 25 counties as Tropical Storm Isaias moves toward the northern Gulf Coast. Gov. Ron DeSantis has urged communities in Northwest Florida to prepare for possible impacts later this week.
The emergency order allows state agencies to position resources before the storm arrives. Officials are preparing for heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding and other hazards that could affect parts of North Florida.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring Isaias as it moves across the Gulf region. Forecasters expect the system to strengthen before reaching the northern Gulf Coast. The storm's exact track and intensity will determine the severity of impacts in Florida.
Isaias Could Bring Heavy Rain And Strong Winds
Forecasts indicate that parts of the Gulf Coast and Southeast could receive several inches of rain through the weekend. Isolated higher totals are possible in areas that experience persistent rainfall.
Heavy rain could increase the risk of flash flooding, particularly where soils are already saturated. Strong winds, coastal flooding and isolated tornadoes are also possible threats.
Officials have advised residents to continue monitoring the forecast because storm conditions can change quickly.
Sources: 'X' Account/ Governor of Florida Ron DeSantis @RonDeSantis
Florida Stages Emergency Supplies
The Florida State Emergency Response Team is positioning emergency supplies in the Tallahassee and Santa Rosa areas. The resources include generators, fuel, bottled water, shelf-stable meals, flood barriers, tarps and sandbags.
The state of emergency covers Baker, Bay, Calhoun, Columbia, Dixie, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Taylor, Walton, Wakulla and Washington counties.
Residents Asked To Monitor Official Forecasts
State officials are urging residents in potentially affected areas to review emergency plans and prepare essential supplies.
The NHC and local authorities will provide updated information as Isaias approaches. Residents should follow official evacuation, shelter and emergency instructions if they are issued.
The storm's final impacts will depend on its track, size and intensity as it moves closer to the Gulf Coast.
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