HURRICANE ISAIAS PRESS RELEASE: Jackson County Declares Local State of Emergency
| PRESS RELEASE | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
For Media Inquiries:
Mary Smith / Public Communications Officer
(850) 482-9633
[email protected]
October 8, 2026
Jackson County Declares Local State of Emergency Ahead of Hurricane Isaias
Tropical Storm Warning in effect; residents urged to complete preparations ahead of severe weather Friday and Saturday
Jackson County, FL – The Jackson County Board of County Commissioners declared a Local State of Emergency during a special meeting Thursday, October 8, in preparation for Hurricane Isaias. The declaration allows the County to mobilize resources, coordinate emergency operations, and respond efficiently to changing conditions. It follows Governor Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order 26-211, declaring a state of emergency for 25 Florida counties, including Jackson County.
Latest Storm Outlook
According to the latest Florida Division of Emergency Management and National Hurricane Center briefing, Hurricane Isaias is a Category 1 hurricane with sustained winds of 85 mph as of 10:00 a.m. Central Time Thursday. The storm could strengthen to Category 2 before making landfall along the far western Florida Panhandle late Friday night or early Saturday morning. Tropical-storm-force winds could reach portions of the Panhandle as early as late Friday morning.
Jackson County is under a Tropical Storm Warning. Primary concerns Friday into Saturday include:
- Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: Portions of the Panhandle could receive 5–10 inches of rain, with isolated amounts up to 15 inches. Flash flooding and significant flooding of low-lying areas, roadways, and areas near rivers and streams are possible.
- Damaging Winds: Strong gusts could cause downed trees, flying debris, and power outages.
- Severe Weather and Tornadoes: A Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather is in effect across portions of the Panhandle Friday and Saturday, including the potential for tornadoes.
Forecast conditions may change. Residents should complete storm preparations as soon as possible.
Jackson County Emergency Preparations
Jackson County Emergency Management continues coordinating with local and state partners. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will activate at Level 2 Friday afternoon, October 9, with increased emergency management and public safety staffing.
Emergency Shelters: General population shelters are not anticipated to open at this time. Emergency Management will continue monitoring conditions and can activate shelters if needed. Residents in RVs, campers, or other vulnerable structures should arrange to stay in a sturdier building before hazardous weather arrives.
Sand Availability: Sand is available at the lot across from the EOC at 2819 Panhandle Road in Marianna. Residents must bring their own bags and shovels. Bags will not be provided, and staff will not be on site.
Friday, October 9 – County Operations and Closures
- Jackson County BOCC Offices: Open during normal business hours.
- Jackson County School District: Closed.
- Jackson County Courthouse: Closed.
- Chipola College: Closed.
- Jackson County Hospital Clinics: Open during normal business hours.
Residents should monitor each agency’s official channels for possible changes.
Residents Encouraged to Complete Preparations
Jackson County Emergency Management encourages residents to activate their hurricane preparedness plans and take the following precautions:
- Flooding: Avoid low-lying areas and never drive through flooded roads.
- Wind and Power Outages: Secure outdoor items, charge devices, and prepare emergency supplies, including flashlights, batteries, food, water, and medications.
- Vulnerable Residents: Check on elderly neighbors and those with medical or special needs. Refill prescriptions and arrange assistance if necessary.
- Pets and Livestock: Ensure animals have adequate food, water, and safe shelter.
- Severe Weather: Identify a safe interior room away from windows for tornado warnings and avoid unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions.
Stay Informed Through Official Sources
Residents are encouraged to register for Alert Jackson, the County’s emergency notification system:
https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614788/login
For official updates, follow:
- Jackson County BOCC: www.jacksoncountyfl.gov and official Facebook page
- Jackson County Emergency Management: (850) 482-9678
- National Weather Service Tallahassee: www.weather.gov/tae
- National Hurricane Center: www.hurricanes.gov
- Florida Division of Emergency Management: www.floridadisaster.org
- Jackson County Sheriff’s Office: Official Facebook page and mobile app
Jackson County officials will continue coordinating with emergency response partners and provide additional updates as conditions develop.
Residents are urged to complete preparations today, remain weather-aware, and rely on verified sources for the latest information.
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