Tallahassee, Fla. – Residents across the Florida Panhandle should prepare for potential flash flooding beginning Thursday, as a slow-moving system threatens to dump up to 8 inches of rain through early next week. The greatest threat looms Saturday through Monday, when the heaviest downpours are expected.
According to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, multiple rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely as an area of low pressure lingers over the northern Gulf. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Marginal Risk (level 1 of 4) for excessive rainfall from Thursday to Saturday, with a 10% chance of localized areas seeing more than 10 inches of rain.
Flood-prone roads and low-lying areas in cities like Panama City, Marianna, and Apalachicola could see water buildup by the weekend. Although the region is currently experiencing moderate drought, flash flood guidance may drop as soils saturate ahead of the main rainfall event. Rivers remain low, but rapid rises are possible with persistent rainfall.
Travel may become hazardous, especially during the weekend. Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways, check drainage near homes, and monitor local alerts. Power outages and minor disruptions are also possible.
Flash flood watches may be issued in the coming days as confidence in the storm’s track increases. Stay updated with daily briefings and local advisories.
