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Emergency Ordinances
Emergency ordinances, declarations, and orders; and Emergency Management related Public Notices
Page Last Updated 9/28/2024 noon
Current Emergency Management related: The local States of Emergency (LSE), emergency ordinances, declarations, orders, and public notices will appear on this page.
This webpage is provided as a public service to exceed compliance with § 252.46 (3), Fla. Stat. (2021).
2024 PTC-9
COUNTY RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION 24-36
STORM UPDATES
Hurricane Helene
September 28, 2024
3 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 304 homes without power. (9/28/2024) Talquin Electric Outage Map
City of Chattahoochee 100 All power restored
Town of Greensboro no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana 600 All power restored
City of Midway All power restored.
City of Quincy 400 All power restored
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree Down
Trees Down throughout the county
Road and Bridges
The Dover Road and Shady Rest Road- Havana intersection suffered severe rain damage, which caused flooding and washed out the road due to damage to a culvert in the County trenches. The road is inoperable and has been closed for safety reasons by the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and Public Works Department and has been considered dangerous for drivers.
Timber Run Road- -Havana suffered severe rain damage that caused flooding and the road to be washed out. The road is inoperable and has been closed for safety reason by the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and Public Works Department and been considered dangerous for drivers.
Beaver Creek Road- Havana- -suffered severe rain damage, causing the culvert to collapse and the road to be washed out. The road is inoperable, and the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and Public Works Department have closed it for safety reasons and considered it dangerous for drivers.
Mae Cato Street in Midway wash out behind residents home county and city public works are working to fix this issue (Avoid this area)
Charles Willis in Midway wash out residents home county and city public works are working to fix this issue (Avoid this area)
Hurricane Helene
September 28, 2024
noon update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 1,203 homes without power. (9/28/2024) Talquin Electric Outage Map
City of Chattahoochee 100 All power restored
Town of Greensboro no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana 600 All power restored
City of Midway Talquin has restored power for most of the City.
City of Quincy 400 All power restored
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree Down
Trees Down throughout the county
Road and Bridges
The Dover Road and Shady Rest Road- Havana intersection suffered severe rain damage, which caused flooding and washed out the road due to damage to a culvert in the County trenches. The road is inoperable and has been closed for safety reasons by the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and Public Works Department and has been considered dangerous for drivers.
Timber Run Road- -Havana suffered severe rain damage that caused flooding and the road to be washed out. The road is inoperable and has been closed for safety reason by the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and Public Works Department and been considered dangerous for drivers.
Beaver Creek Road- Havana- -suffered severe rain damage, causing the culvert to collapse and the road to be washed out. The road is inoperable, and the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and Public Works Department have closed it for safety reasons and considered it dangerous for drivers.
Mae Cato Street in Midway wash out behind residents home county and city public works are working to fix this issue (Avoid this area)
Charles Willis in Midway wash out residents home county and city public works are working to fix this issue (Avoid this area)
Hurricane Helene
September 27, 2024
1 a.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 3332 homes without power. (9/27/2024) Talquin Electric Outage Map
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana outages reported
City of Quincy outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
12:48 a.m. Trees Down
Richbay and Tire Road extending down to Iron Bridge Road Havana
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
12:13 a.m. Tree Down and blocking entire Road
US 27 AND Azalea Road Havana
Deputy on the Scene
Hurricane Helene
September 27, 2024
Midnight update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 1043 homes without power. (9/27/2024) Talquin Electric Outage Map
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Hurricane Helene
September 26, 2024
11 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 444 homes without power. (9/26/2024) Talquin Electric Outage Map
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
12:48 a.m. Trees Down
Richbay and Tire Road extending down to Iron Bridge Road Havana
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
12:13 a.m. Tree Down and blocking entire Road
US 27 AND Azalea Road Havana
Deputy on the Scene
Hurricane Helene
September 26, 2024
9 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 73 homes without power. (9/26/2024) Talquin Electric Outage Map
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
None Reported at this time
Hurricane Helene
September 26, 2024
11 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 444 homes without power. (9/26/2024) Talquin Electric Outage Map
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
None Reported at this time
Hurricane Helene
September 26, 2024
9 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 73 homes without power. (9/26/2024) Talquin Electric Outage Map
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
None Reported at this time
Storm Shelter Update noon 9/26/24
You can request a free ride from Uber to the state-approved shelter if needed.
Uber to Offer Free Rides to Evacuation Centers
The Florida Division of Emergency Management has partnered with ride-share service Uber to provide Floridians free rides to shelters in counties under a state of emergency for Hurricane Helene, including Gadsden County.
How to get a ride:
- Open the Uber app.
- Tap “Account” on the bottom right, then tap Wallet.
- Add the promo code HELENERELIEF.
The offer is good for up to $35 to and from a state-approved shelter.
PRESS RELEASES
GADSDEN COUNTY ANNOUNCES SANDBAG LOCATIONS IN PREPARATION FOR SEVERE WEATHER EVENT
GADSDEN COUNTY IS PREPARED FOR TROPICAL STORM HELENE ANNOUNCES OFFICE CLOSURES AND SERVICES CHANGES
GADSDEN COUNTY TO OPEN EMERGENCY SHELTERS ON WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
COUNTY RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION 24-031
PRESS RELEASES
GADSDEN COUNTY ANNOUNCES SANDBAG LOCATIONS IN PREPARATION FOR SEVERE WEATHER EVENT
GADSDEN COUNTY OPENS EMERGENCY SHELTERS TODAY
GADSDEN COUNTY IS PREPARED FOR TROPICAL STORM DEBBY ANNOUNCES OFFICE CLOSURES AND SERVICES CHANGES
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA)
SBA Disaster Declaration
SBA Disaster Loans
SBA Office Locations
STORM UPDATES
Tropical Storm Debby
August 6, 2024
11 a.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 379 homes without power. (8/6/2024) Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
No incidents at this time
Tropical Storm Debby
August 5, 2024
5 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 517 homes without power. (8/5/2024) Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
Glade Road/McBride Court, Havana- - Tree down blocking both lanes law enforcement on scene. (closed)
Concord/Iron Bridge Road, Havana- - Tree down blocking one lane law enforcement on scene. (closed)
1931 Tallavana Trail, Havana- - Tree and powerline on fire due to transformer outage. (closed)
8658 Havana Highway/Salem Road, Havana- - Tree across road. (closed)
Tropical Storm Debby
August 5, 2024
1:30 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 529 homes without power. (8/5/2024) Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
Glade Road/McBride Court, Havana- - Tree down blocking both lanes law enforcement on scene. (closed)
Concord/Iron Bridge Road, Havana- - Tree down blocking one lane law enforcement on scene. (closed)
1931 Tallavana Trail, Havana- - Tree and powerline on fire due to transformer outage. (closed)
8658 Havana Highway/Salem Road, Havana- - Tree across road. (closed)
Tropical Storm Debby
August 5, 2024
noon update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 209 homes without power. (8/5/2024) noon Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
City of Chattahoochee no outages reported
City of Gretna no outages reported
Town of Havana no outages reported
City of Quincy no outages reported
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
Glade Road/McBride Court, Havana- - Tree down blocking both lanes law enforcement on scene. (closed)
Concord/Iron Bridge Road, Havana- - Tree down blocking one lane law enforcement on scene. (closed)
1931 Tallavana Trail, Havana- - Tree and powerline on fire due to transformer outage. (closed)
8658 Havana Highway/Salem Road, Havana- - Tree across road. (closed)
Tropical Storm Debby
August 5, 2024
8 a.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 628 homes without power. (8/5/2024) 8 a.m. Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
No new storm related accidents reported
Tropical Storm Debby
August 4, 2024
11 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 2 homes without power. (8/4/2024) 11 p.m. Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down
No new storm related accidents
Tropical Storm Debby
August 4, 2024
8 p.m. update
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 254 homes without power. (8/4/2024) 9 p.m. Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down 9 p.m.
Tree is on the power line. (Please find an alternate travel route.)
526 Hazel Green Road, Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office, Gadsden Fire, and Talquin Electric are headed to the scene.
_______________________________________________________________
Gadsden County High School (East) (Special Needs and Pets) * * *Closed* * *
West Gadsden Middle Emergency Shelter is Now Closed.* * *Closed* * *
Power Outages
Talquin Electric Reported 1,400 homes without power. (8/30/2023) 8 a.m. Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
Talquin Electric Reported 2,100 homes without power. (8/30/2023) 9 a.m. Talquin EMC Outage Map (talquinelectric.com)
Trees Down and Reported Accidents
Tree and Power Line Down 10 a.m.
The tree is on the power line. (Please find an alternate travel route.)
3750 Fairbanks Ferry Road, Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office, Gadsden Public Works, and Talquin Electric are headed to the scene.
Tree Down 9:30 a.m.
Tallavana Trail/Tallavana Court
Cleared
Tree Down 9 a.m.
Shady Rest Road
Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office clearing tree
Small Pine Tree Down
Eastbound Greensboro Highway
.25 Miles from Women's Prison
Cleared at 7:15 a.m.
Tree Down
Jefferson Street and South Patten 8:10 a.m.
Quincy Police Department Responding
Car Accident
High Bridge and Plantation Road
Florida High Patrol notified
State Executive Orders
Executive Order 23-171 (8/26/2023)
FLHSMV Executive Order (8/26/2023)
Executive Order 23-172 Amendment to Executive Order 23-171 (8/28/2023)
Executive Order 23-175 Amendment to EO 23-171 (8/29/2023)
Press Release Updates
Tropical Storm Idalia Preparedness
Sand Bag Locations
Gadsden County Board of County Commissioners Tropical Storm Idalia Emergency Meeting
Gadsden County Opens Emergency Shelters
Gadsden County Office Closures and Service Changes
County Resolutions
Gadsden County Emergency Resolution 23-023
Shelters
Gadsden County High School (East) (Special Needs and Pets) * * *Closed* * *
27001 Blue Star Highway
Havana, FL 32333
West Gadsden Middle * * *Closed* * *
200 Providence Rd
Quincy, FL 32351
Sand Bag Locations
Post Plant Pit off Post Plant Road
Clark Pit off Edwin Clark Road
Sandbags are limited to 15 bags per household. Citizens need to bring shovels to fill bags themselves. Locations will not be staffed, but crews will monitor and provide additional sand and bags as needed. The site will be open until the storm threat has passed and it is determined there is no longer a need.
Weather Updates
Tropical Storm Idalia
August 30, 2023
11 a.m. update
Weather Alert
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind
- Peak Wind Forecast: 15-25 mph with gusts to 35 mph
- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 58
to 73 mph
- The wind threat has decreased from the previous assessment.
- PLAN: Plan for dangerous wind of equivalent strong tropical
storm force.
- PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect life and property
should be completed as soon as possible. Prepare for
significant wind damage.
- ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous.
- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant
- Some damage to roofing and siding materials, along with
damage to porches, awnings, carports, and sheds. A few
buildings experiencing window, door, and garage door
failures. Mobile homes damaged, especially if unanchored.
Unsecured lightweight objects become dangerous projectiles.
- Several large trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater
numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Several
fences and roadway signs blown over.
- Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within
urban or heavily wooded places. A few bridges, causeways,
and access routes impassable.
- Scattered power and communications outages, but more
prevalent in areas with above ground lines.
* STORM SURGE
- No storm surge inundation forecast
- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Little to no storm
surge flooding
- The storm surge threat has remained nearly steady from the
previous assessment.
- PLAN: There is little to no threat of storm surge flooding.
Rough surf, coastal erosion, and life-threatening rip
currents are possible.
- PREPARE: Little to no preparations for storm surge flooding
are needed.
- ACT: Follow the instructions of local officials. Monitor
forecasts.
- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None
- Little to no potential impacts from storm surge flooding.
* FLOODING RAIN
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect
- Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 2-4 inches, with locally
higher amounts
- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for major
flooding rain
- The flooding rain threat has remained nearly steady from
the previous assessment.
- PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for
major flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are
likely.
- PREPARE: Strongly consider protective actions, especially
if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding.
- ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take
action will likely result in serious injury or loss of life.
- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Extensive
- Major rainfall flooding may prompt many evacuations and
rescues.
- Rivers and tributaries may rapidly overflow their banks in
multiple places. Small streams, creeks, and ditches may
become dangerous rivers. Flood control systems and barriers
may become stressed.
- Flood waters can enter many structures within multiple
communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or
washed away. Many places where flood waters may cover
escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of
moving water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions
become dangerous. Many road and bridge closures with some
weakened or washed out.
* TORNADO
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST:
- Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes
- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Tornadoes not expected
- The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the
previous assessment.
- PLAN: Tornadoes are not expected. Showers and thunderstorms
with gusty winds may still occur.
- PREPARE: Little to no preparations needed to protect
against tornadoes at this time. Keep informed of the latest
tornado situation.
- ACT: Listen for changes in the forecast.
- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None
- Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes.
* FOR MORE INFORMATION:
- Local Weather Conditions and Forecasts: NWS Tallahassee
- https://www.weather.gov/tallahassee
- Information from the Florida Division of Emergency Management
- https://www.floridadisaster.org
- Information from Gadsden County Emergency Management
- Gadsden County, FL (gadsdencountyfl.gov)
Weather Updates
Tropical Storm Idalia
August 30, 2023
1 a.m. update
Weather Alert
Hurricane Local Statement issued by NWS Tallahassee.
This product covers the eastern Florida panhandle, Florida Big Bend, southeastern Alabama, and southwestern Georgia. All preparations need to be completed. Now is the time to hunker down and shelter in place. Conditions will begin rapidly deteriorating shortly.
NEW INFORMATION --------------- * CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - None *
CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - A Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Warning are in effect for Coastal Dixie, Coastal Franklin, Coastal Jefferson, Coastal Taylor, and Coastal Wakulla - A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Inland Dixie, Inland Jefferson, Inland Taylor, Inland Wakulla, Lafayette, Lanier, Leon, Lowndes, Madison, and Thomas - A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Baker, Ben Hill, Coastal Gulf, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Gadsden, Grady, Inland Franklin, Inland Gulf, Irwin, Lee, Liberty, Mitchell, Tift, Turner, and Worth * STORM INFORMATION: - About 170 miles south of St Marks or about 190 miles south of Tallahassee - 27.7N 84.5W - Storm Intensity 110 mph - Movement North or 10 degrees at 18 mph
SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ All preparations need to be complete. Now is the time to hunker down and shelter in place. Conditions will begin rapidly deteriorating shortly. Hurricane Idalia continues to strengthen further. At 11 PM EDT, the center of Idalia was located over the eastern Gulf of Mexico, about 190 miles south of Tallahassee, Florida. Idalia is moving to the north at 18 mph. Idalia now has top sustained winds of 110 mph, which is just below major hurricane strength. Additional strengthening is expected through landfall. Idalia is now forecast to be a potentially catastrophic Category 4 hurricane at landfall. To put this into historical context, there are NO major hurricanes (category 3+) in the historical dataset going back to 1851 that have tracked into Apalachee Bay. This has the makings of an unprecedented event for this part of the state. At this time, you need to hunker down and shelter in place for the night, especially across the Florida Big Bend. Life-threatening and catastrophic storm surge is expected around the shores of Apalachee Bay. From the Aucilla River to Yankeetown, storm surge inundation of 12 to 16 feet is possible. Storm surge will be highly dependent on the storm track, with the highest surge values along and to the right of where the center makes landfall. Storm surge will peak tonight and Wednesday.
A Storm Surge Warning is in effect from Indian Pass to the Suwannee River for the danger of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland. Storm surge inundation above normally dry ground could reach the following heights if the peak surge occurs with high tide: 1 to 3 feet from Mexico Beach to Indian Pass, 3 to 5 feet from Indian Pass to Carrabelle, 5 to 8 feet from Carrabelle to the mouth of the Ochlockonee River, 8 to 12 feet from the Ochlockonee River to the Aucilla River, and 12 to 16 feet from the Aucilla River to the Suwannee River. The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast, where the surge will be accompanied by large and dangerous waves. A Hurricane Warning is in effect along the coast from Indian Pass to the Suwannee River, plus inland portions of the Florida Big Bend and the I-75 corridor of south Georgia. A
Tropical Storm Warning is in effect from Mexico Beach to Indian Pass, plus inland portions of Southwest Georgia as far northwest as Bainbridge, Camilla, and Sylvester. Tropical storm force winds will arrive in the next few hours along the coast and spread inland into Wednesday morning. Expect downed trees and powerlines, possibly widespread in the Big Bend region, with prolonged power outages possible. Ensure you have enough supplies to last for several days. Now is the time to shelter in place. Rainfall amounts will be heaviest along and east of the track of Idalia, especially in the Florida Big Bend into south-central Georgia. 5 to 8 inches of rain are forecast, with isolated higher amounts possible. This could lead to life-threatening flash flooding.
A Flood Watch is now in effect from Gulf County, FL, to Lee County, GA, and all points eastward. River flooding is possible in the Ochlockonee, Aucilla, Saint Marks, and Suwannee basins, but fast forward motion of the storms will keep river flooding minor. Several tornadoes are possible in the outer rain bands starting tonight and continuing into Wednesday. This will primarily be north and east of the center.
A Tornado Watch is in effect for Taylor, Dixie, and Lafayette counties until 6 a.m. EDT. Life-threatening rip currents and high surf are expected along all beaches for at least the next couple of days, well away from the center. Everyone needs to stay out of the water.
POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * SURGE: Protect against life-threatening surges having possible catastrophic impacts across Apalachee Bay. Potential impacts in this area include: - Widespread deep inundation, with storm surge flooding greatly accentuated by powerful battering waves. Structural damage to buildings, with many washing away. Damage is greatly compounded from considerable floating debris. Locations may be uninhabitable for an extended period. - Near-shore escape routes and secondary roads washed out or severely flooded. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Extreme beach erosion. New shoreline cuts are possible. - Massive damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers. Numerous small craft broken away from moorings, with many lifted onshore and stranded. Elsewhere across the eastern Florida panhandle, little to no impact is anticipated.
* WIND: Protect against life-threatening wind having possible devastating impacts across the Florida Big Bend and south-central Georgia. Potential impacts in this area include: - Structural damage to sturdy buildings, some with complete roof and wall failures. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Damage is greatly accentuated by large airborne projectiles. Locations may be uninhabitable for weeks or months. - Numerous large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and roadway signs blown over. - Many roads are impassable from large debris, and more within urban or heavily wooded places. Many bridges, causeways, and access routes are impassable. - Widespread power and communications outages.
* FLOODING RAIN: Protect against life-threatening rainfall flooding having possible extensive impacts across portions of the Florida Big Bend, the eastern Panhandle, and southern Georgia through Wednesday. Potential impacts include: - Major rainfall flooding may prompt many evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may rapidly overflow their banks in multiple places. Small streams, creeks, and ditches may become dangerous rivers. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Flood waters can enter many structures within multiple communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or washed away. Many places where flood waters may cover escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of moving water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions become dangerous. Many road and bridge closures with some weakened or washed out. *
TORNADOES: A few tornadoes will be possible over the Florida Big Bend tonight and spreading into south Georgia Wednesday. Potential impacts include: - The occurrence of scattered tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - Several places may experience tornado damage with a few spots of considerable damage, power loss, and communications failures. - Locations could realize roofs torn off frame houses, mobile homes demolished, boxcars overturned, large trees snapped or uprooted, vehicles tumbled, and small boats tossed about. Dangerous projectiles can add to the toll. Elsewhere across the eastern Florida panhandle and southeastern Alabama, little to no impact is anticipated.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS -----------------------------
* EVACUATIONS: Listen to local officials for recommended preparedness actions, including possible evacuation. If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. For those not under evacuation orders, assess the risk of wind, falling trees, and flooding at your location. If you decide to move, relocate to a safer location nearby. If you do not relocate, help keep roadways open for those under evacuation orders. If evacuating, leave with a destination in mind and allow extra time to get there. Take your emergency supplies kit. Gas up your vehicle ahead of time. Let others know where you are going prior to departure. Secure loose items and pets in the car, and avoid distracted driving. If evacuating, follow designated evacuation routes. Seek traffic information on roadway signs, the radio, and from official sources.
* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: If you are relocating to safe shelter, leave as early as possible. Allow extra time to reach your destination. Many roads and bridges will be closed once strong winds arrive. Check the latest weather forecast before departing, and drive with caution. If heading to a community shelter, become familiar with the shelter rules before arrival, especially if you have special needs or have pets. Take essential items with you from your Emergency Supplies Kit. Failure to adequately shelter may result in serious injury or loss of life. Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders that are issued. Remember, during the storm, 9 1 1 Emergency Services may not be able to immediately respond if conditions are unsafe. This should be a big factor in your decision-making. Keep cell phones well charged. Cell phone chargers for automobiles can be helpful, but be aware of your risk for deadly carbon monoxide poisoning if your car is left idling in a garage or other poorly ventilated area. If you are a visitor, be sure to know the name of the city in which you are staying and the name of the county in which it resides. Listen for these locations in local news updates. Pay attention for instructions from local authorities. Storm surge is the leading killer associated with tropical storms and hurricanes! Make sure you are in a safe area away from the surge zone. Even if you are not in a surge-prone area, you could find yourself cut off by flood waters during and after the storm. Heed evacuation orders issued by the local authorities. Rapidly rising flood waters are deadly. If you are in a flood-prone area, consider moving to higher ground. Never drive through a flooded roadway. Remember, turn around, don`t drown! If a Tornado Warning is issued for your area, be ready to shelter quickly, preferably away from windows and in an interior room not prone to flooding. If driving, scan the roadside for quick shelter options. If in a place that is vulnerable to high wind, such as near large trees, a manufactured home, upper floors of a high-rise building, or on a boat, consider moving to a safer shelter before the onset of strong winds or flooding. Closely monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather radio or local news outlets for official storm information. Be ready to adapt to possible changes to the forecast. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.
* ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION: - For information on appropriate preparations, see ready.gov - For additional disaster preparedness information, see redcross.org
NEXT UPDATE ----------- The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, FL, around 530 AM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.
Tropical Storm Idalia
August 29, 2023
8 p.m. update
Weather Alert
This product covers eastern Florida panhandle, Florida Big Bend, southeastern Alabama, and southwestern Georgia ...PREPARATIONS FOR EXPECTED MAJOR HURRICANE IDALIA SHOULD BE RUSHED TO COMPLETION... NEW INFORMATION --------------- * CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - The Tropical Storm Warning has been upgraded to a Hurricane Warning for Berrien, Cook, and Thomas - A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Baker, Dougherty, and Lee * CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - A Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Warning are in effect for Coastal Dixie, Coastal Franklin, Coastal Jefferson, Coastal Taylor, and Coastal Wakulla - A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Inland Dixie, Inland Jefferson, Inland Taylor, Inland Wakulla, Lafayette, Lanier, Leon, Lowndes, Madison, and Thomas -
A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Baker, Ben Hill, Coastal Gulf, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Gadsden, Grady, Inland Franklin, Inland Gulf, Irwin, Lee, Liberty, Mitchell, Tift, Turner, and Worth
* STORM INFORMATION: - About 300 miles south of Tallahassee or about 270 miles south-southwest of Keaton Beach - 26.1N 84.8W - Storm Intensity 100 mph - Movement North or 360 degrees at 16 mph SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ Preparations in advance of Hurricane Idalia should be rushed to completion by sunset this evening.
Hurricane Idalia continued to strengthen this afternoon. At 5 PM EDT, the center of Idalia was located over the eastern Gulf of Mexico about 280 miles south of Saint Marks Florida. Idalia is moving to the north at 16 mph. Idalia now has top sustained winds of 100 mph. Additional strengthening is expected through tonight, and Idalia is expected to be a major hurricane at landfall along the Big Bend coast.
Hurricane Idalia is expected to be a Category 3 hurricane at landfall and could possibly be a low-end Category 4. To put this into historical context, there are NO major hurricanes in the historical dataset going back to 1851 that have tracked into Apalachee Bay. This has the makings of an unprecedented event for this part of the state.
Your final preparations should be rushed to completion by sunset this evening. If you are under an evacuation order, leave as soon as possible. Conditions will rapidly deteriorate late tonight and early Wednesday morning. Life-threatening and catastrophic storm surge is expected around the shores of Apalachee Bay. From the Aucilla River to Yankeetown, storm surge inundation of 10 to 15 feet is possible.
Storm surge will be highly dependent on the storm track, with the highest surge values along and to the right of where the center makes landfall. Storm surge will peak tonight and Wednesday. A Storm Surge Warning is in effect from Indian Pass to the Suwannee River for the danger of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland. Storm surge inundation above normally dry ground could reach the following heights if the peak surge occurs with high tide: 1 to 3 feet from Mexico Beach to Indian Pass, 3 to 5 feet from Indian Pass to Carrabelle, 4 to 7 feet from Carrabelle to the mouth of the Ochlockonee River, 7 to 11 feet from the Ochlockonee River to the Aucilla River, and 10 to 15 feet from the Aucilla River to the Suwannee River. The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast, where the surge will be accompanied by large and dangerous waves.
A Hurricane Warning is in effect along the coast from Indian Pass to the Suwannee River, plus inland portions of the Florida Big Bend and the I-75 corridor of south Georgia. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect from Mexico Beach to Indian Pass, plus inland portions of Southwest Georgia as far northwest as Bainbridge, Camilla, and Sylvester. Tropical storm force winds are most likely to arrive along the coast after midnight tonight, though brief increases to tropical storm force in rain bands are possible starting early this evening. Preparations for Idalia need to be rushed to completion. Expect downed trees and powerlines, possibly widespread in the Big Bend region, with prolonged power outages possible.
Ensure you have enough supplies to last for several days. Rainfall amounts will be heaviest along and east of the track of Idalia, especially in the Florida Big Bend into south-central Georgia. 5 to 8 inches of rain are forecast, with isolated higher amounts possible. This could lead to life-threatening flash flooding.
A Flood Watch is now in effect from Gulf County, FL, to Lee County, GA, and all points eastward. River flooding is possible in the Ochlockonee, Aucilla, Saint Marks, and Suwannee basins, but fast forward motion of the storms will keep river flooding minor.
Several tornadoes are possible in the outer rain bands starting tonight and continuing into Wednesday. This will primarily be north and east of the center.
Life-threatening rip currents and high surf are expected along all beaches for at least the next couple days, well away from the center. Everyone needs to stay out of the water.
POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * SURGE: Protect against life-threatening surges having possible catastrophic impacts across the Big Bend coast. Potential impacts in this area include: - Widespread deep inundation, with storm surge flooding greatly accentuated by powerful battering waves. Structural damage to buildings, with many washing away. Damage greatly compounded from considerable floating debris. Locations may be uninhabitable for an extended period. - Near-shore escape routes and secondary roads washed out or severely flooded. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Extreme beach erosion. New shoreline cuts possible. - Massive damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers. Numerous small craft broken away from moorings with many lifted onshore and stranded. Elsewhere across eastern Florida panhandle little to no impact is anticipated.
* WIND: Protect against life-threatening wind having possible devastating impacts across the Florida Big Bend region and south-central Georgia. Potential impacts in this area include: - Structural damage to sturdy buildings, some with complete roof and wall failures. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Damage greatly accentuated by large airborne projectiles. Locations may be uninhabitable for weeks or months. - Numerous large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and roadway signs blown over. - Many roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban or heavily wooded places. Many bridges, causeways, and access routes impassable. - Widespread power and communications outages. * FLOODING RAIN: Areas of flash and urban flooding, some of which may be locally significant, are expected across portions of the Florida Big Bend, the eastern Panhandle, and southern Georgia through Wednesday. * TORNADOES: A few tornadoes will be possible over the Florida Big Bend tonight, and spreading into south Georgia Wednesday. Potential impacts include: - The occurrence of scattered tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - Several places may experience tornado damage with a few spots of considerable damage, power loss, and communications failures. - Locations could realize roofs torn off frame houses, mobile homes demolished, boxcars overturned, large trees snapped or uprooted, vehicles tumbled, and small boats tossed about. Dangerous projectiles can add to the toll. Elsewhere across the eastern Florida panhandle and southeastern Alabama, little to no impact is anticipated.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ---------------------------------- *
EVACUATIONS: Listen to local officials for recommended preparedness actions, including possible evacuation. If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. For those not under evacuation orders, assess the risk from wind, falling trees, and flooding at your location. If you decide to move, relocate to a safer location nearby. If you do not relocate, help keep roadways open for those under evacuation orders. If evacuating, leave with a destination in mind and allow extra time to get there. Take your emergency supplies kit. Gas up your vehicle ahead of time. Let others know where you are going prior to departure. Secure loose items and pets in the car, and avoid distracted driving. If evacuating, follow designated evacuation routes. Seek traffic information on roadway signs, the radio, and from official sources. * OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: All preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion. Ensure you are in a safe location before the onset of strong winds or possible flooding. If you are relocating to safe shelter, leave as early as possible. Allow extra time to reach your destination. Many roads and bridges will be closed once strong winds arrive. Check the latest weather forecast before departing, and drive with caution. If heading to a community shelter, familiarize yourself with the shelter rules before arrival, especially if you have special needs or pets. Take essential items with you from your Emergency Supplies Kit. Failure to adequately shelter may result in serious injury or loss of life. Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders that are issued. Remember, during the storm 9 1 1 Emergency Services may not be able to immediately respond if conditions are unsafe. This should be a big factor in your decision making. Keep cell phones well charged. Cell phone chargers for automobiles can be helpful, but be aware of your risk for deadly carbon monoxide poisoning if your car is left idling in a garage or other poorly ventilated area. If you are a visitor, be sure to know the name of the city in which you are staying and the name of the county in which it resides. Listen for these locations in local news updates. Pay attention for instructions from local authorities. Storm surge is the leading killer associated with tropical storms and hurricanes! Make sure you are in a safe area away from the surge zone. Even if you are not in a surge-prone area, you could find yourself cutoff by flood waters during and after the storm. Heed evacuation orders issued by the local authorities. Rapidly rising flood waters are deadly. If you are in a flood-prone area, consider moving to higher ground. Never drive through a flooded roadway. Remember, turn around don`t drown! If a Tornado Warning is issued for your area, be ready to shelter quickly, preferably away from windows and in an interior room not prone to flooding. If driving, scan the roadside for quick shelter options. If in a place that is vulnerable to high wind, such as near large trees, a manufactured home, upper floors of a high-rise building, or on a boat, consider moving to a safer shelter before the onset of strong winds or flooding. Closely monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather radio or local news outlets for official storm information. Be ready to adapt to possible changes to the forecast. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. *
ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION: - For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov - For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org NEXT UPDATE ----------- The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather Service in Tallahassee FL around 1130 PM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.
Tropical Storm Idalia
August 29, 2023
6 p.m. update
Weather Alert
Tropical Storm Warning was issued August 29 at 5:06 PM EDT until further notice by NWS Tallahassee.
...TROPICAL STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT... * LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Quincy - Chattahoochee * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 25-35 mph with gusts to 45 mph - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 58 to 73 mph - The wind threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. -
PLAN: Plan for dangerous wind of equivalent strong tropical storm force. -
PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect life and property should be completed as soon as possible. Prepare for significant wind damage. -
ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. -
POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant - Some damage to roofing and siding materials, along with damage to porches, awnings, carports, and sheds. A few buildings experiencing window, door, and garage door failures. Mobile homes damaged, especially if unanchored. Unsecured lightweight objects become dangerous projectiles. - Several large trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow-rooted. Several fences and roadway signs blown over. - Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban or heavily wooded places. A few bridges, causeways, and access routes impassable. - Scattered power and communications outages, but more prevalent in areas with above ground lines. *
FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 3-6 inches, with locally higher amounts - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for major flooding rain - The flooding rain threat has increased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for major flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are likely. - PREPARE: Strongly consider protective actions, especially if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding. - ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action will likely result in serious injury or loss of life. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Extensive - Major rainfall flooding may prompt many evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may rapidly overflow their banks in multiple places. Small streams, creeks, and ditches may become dangerous rivers. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Flood waters can enter many structures within multiple communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or washed away. Many places where flood waters may cover escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of moving water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions become dangerous. Many road and bridge closures with some weakened or washed out. * TORNADO - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: - Situation is somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for a few tornadoes. -
PREPARE: If your shelter is particularly vulnerable to tornadoes, prepare to relocate to safe shelter before hazardous weather arrives. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL
IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - Local Weather Conditions and Forecasts: NWS Tallahassee - https://www.weather.gov/tallahassee - Information from the Florida Division of Emergency Management - https://www.floridadisaster.org
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Tropical Storm Nicole
November 9, 2022
6 p.m. update
State Executive Orders
Executive Order 22-253 the National Hurricane Center predicts Subtropical Storm Nicole will impact
Florida's East Coast and could affect portions of the previously impacted area still recovering from
Hurricane Ian.
County Resolutions
County Resolution No. 22-035- -Gadsden County Local State of Emergency Resolution Tropical Storm Nicole.
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Tropical Storm Ian
September 25, 2022
11 p.m. update
EXECUTIVE ORDERS
Executive Order 22-219- - (Amending Executive Order 22-218, Emergency Management – Tropical Depression Nine), expanding the state of emergency statewide.
Executive Order 22-218- -State of Florida Office of the Governor Executive Order Number 22-218 (Emergency Management-Tropical Depression Nine)
Gadsden County Resolution 22-030- -Gadsden County Local State of Emergency Resolution Hurricane Ian