Tallahassee, Florida – Heavy rain and life-threatening rip currents are threatening the Florida Panhandle through Friday, raising concerns for drivers and beachgoers across the region. Flash flooding and dangerous surf conditions are expected from Tallahassee to Panama City, Apalachicola, and surrounding coastal communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, a Level 1 Excessive Rain Risk remains in effect tonight, with isolated flash flooding possible on area roadways, especially in low-lying and urban spots. A disturbance in the Gulf has a 40% chance of tropical development, but regardless of formation, high surf and rip currents will remain a hazard along Walton, Bay, Gulf, and Franklin County beaches.
Residents in Marianna, DeFuniak Springs, Perry, and other inland areas should be prepared for sudden ponding of water and slower commutes on main roads, including stretches of US-98 and I-10. Beach visitors from Miramar Beach to St. George Island are strongly urged to stay out of the water where red flags are flying, as surf will reach 2 to 4 feet and rip currents may sweep even strong swimmers into deeper water.
Emergency managers advise avoiding non-essential travel during heavy downpours and keeping phones charged in case of power outages. Those near the coast should heed all posted beach warning flags and check for the latest advisories before venturing outside.
The risk of flooding and hazardous surf will persist through Friday, with additional weather alerts possible if the tropical disturbance strengthens.
