Hurricane Michael continues to strengthen as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico. It is forecast to become a MAJOR Category 3 Hurricane prior to landfall. Landfall will most likely occur on Wednesday along the Florida panhandle. Dangerous impacts from surge, wind, and flooding are likely across a portion of the northern Gulf Coast. Northern Gulf Coast residents and tourists need to monitor the latest forecasts closely. If ordered to evacuate, please listen to county EMA directions/orders.
Storm Information Forecast by the National Weather Service in Mobile for late Tuesday, Oct. 9 through Wednesday, Oct. 10:
- Landfall is forecast on Wednesday somewhere along the Florida Panhandle. Residents of Northwest Florida should prepare for the potential of a direct impact.
- Michael is forecast to intensify to a major, Category 3 hurricane prior to landfall.
- Tropical storm conditions could impact the coast by Tuesday evening, but most likely Wednesday morning.
Escambia County Community
Sand Bags
Escambia County is offering sand for sand bags for residents living in flood-prone areas. The sand will be available and distributed on a first come, first served basis. Residents must bring their own sandbags and shovels to one of the following locations (map):
- Baars Field Athletic Park - 13001 Sorrento Road
- Brent Athletic Park - 4711 N. W St.
- Don Sutton Park - 2320 Crabtree Church Road
- Equestrian Center - 7750 Mobile Highway
- Escambia County Road Department - 601 Highway 297-A
- Ferry Pass Middle School - 8355 Yancey Lane, sand will be on the northwest corner of school property on Parazine Street
- John R. Jones Jr. Athletic Park - 555 E. Nine Mile Road
- Travis M. Nelson Park - 4541 County Road 4
When laid properly, sand bags can be an effective tool for flooding from a rain event, but not for storm surge. For more information on how to make and use sandbags, visit the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (www.flash.org). Sand bags can be purchased at most local hardware or home improvement stores, typically for a low cost.
Road ClosuresIn the event that standing water makes a road impassable or there are sustained winds (NOT gusts) of 39 mph making a bridge unsafe, the specific location will be announced as soon as it occurs. Online resources include:
- Check for Escambia County road closures 24/7 at www.myescambia.com/roadissuesmap.
- City of Pensacola road closures can be viewed here.
- For the latest closures and updates, travelers can access Florida's 511 service from cell phones, landlines and online at www.FL511.com.
Schools, Colleges & Universities
- Escambia County Schools will be in session for a half-day Early Release schedule on Tuesday, Oct. 9 and closed Wednesday, Oct. 10. All extracurricular activities are canceled for both dates.
- All UWF locations will close at noon on Tuesday, Oct. 9 and remain closed on Wednesday, Oct. 10 due to Hurricane Michael. This includes all classes, events, campus activities and online courses. The University is expected to resume classes and normal business operations at 7:59 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 11. All essential personnel are asked to report to work.
- All Pensacola State College campuses and centers will close at noon on Tuesday, Oct. 9, and remain closed through Wednesday, Oct. 10. This closure includes all classes, evening classes, school activities, and online classes. At the present time, PSC is scheduled to resume normal operational hours on Thursday, Oct. 11.
Pensacola Christian Academy will be open a full day on Tuesday. On Tuesday, a decision will be determined and communicated regarding Wednesday school.