Tallahassee, FL – Residents across the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend should prepare for widespread rain, isolated thunderstorms, and dangerous marine and beach conditions today into tonight as a cold front approaches the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, high chances for rain will persist through tonight, with rainfall totals between one-quarter and one inch expected across most areas. Locally higher amounts are possible across the eastern Florida Panhandle and western Big Bend, especially closer to the coast, where spotty totals of 2 to 3 inches could occur.
Forecasters say the rainfall will be beneficial, but it is not expected to cause flooding. Drivers should still watch for nuisance ponding of water on roads, particularly during heavier downpours.
A few thunderstorms are also possible today and tonight, though severe weather is not anticipated.
Along the Gulf waters and beaches, conditions will turn hazardous through Friday. Southwest winds are expected to increase to 20–25 knots, especially west of Apalachicola, leading to rough seas of 4 to 6 feet offshore and surf heights of 2 to 4 feet.
The National Weather Service has issued a Small Craft Advisory and warns of a high risk of rip currents for beaches in Walton, Bay, Gulf, and Franklin counties. Officials strongly advise inexperienced mariners and operators of small vessels to remain in port.
Beachgoers are urged to stay out of the surf where red flags are flying, as rip currents could be life-threatening.
Rain chances will gradually decrease behind the cold front early Friday, though breezy and hazardous marine conditions may linger.
