The Florida Panhandle braces for severe weather tonight as Hurricane Francine’s outer bands approach. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings for potential tornadoes, localized flooding, and hazardous beach conditions beginning tonight and extending into Thursday.
According to the NWS, the tornado threat will increase in the evening hours, with isolated tornadoes possible throughout the Panhandle, continuing into Thursday morning. A Flood Watch is in effect, with rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches expected, and some areas seeing up to 8 inches. Residents are urged to avoid flood-prone areas and remain alert for flash flooding.
Beachgoers along the Emerald Coast face high rip current risks and hazardous surf conditions through the weekend. Minor coastal flooding is also possible along the shoreline, with beach erosion likely.
As the storm moves inland, residents across southwest Georgia and southeast Alabama should prepare for continued severe weather through Thursday. The NWS advises keeping emergency plans in place and staying updated through official channels as conditions evolve.
