National Weather Service officials issued a Severe Flood Warning for Walton and Washington counties in Florida, effective until 2:00 a.m. EDT on June 29, 2026, for the Choctawhatchee River near Bruce (SR 20). The alert states minor flooding is forecast, with the river expected to rise above flood stage by late morning and crest early Thursday afternoon. Last update: June 24, 2026.
Warning for the Choctawhatchee River near Bruce (SR 20)
The warning targets communities along the Choctawhatchee River corridor where recent rises have brought the current stage to 12.7 feet. Forecast guidance indicates a crest of 14.8 feet early Thursday afternoon, followed by a gradual fall. The advisory remains in effect through early Sunday as conditions evolve, underscoring the need for continued vigilance along the west banks and low-lying corridors adjacent to the river.
Forecast crest and timing through Sunday
Forecasters expect the river to move above flood stage by late morning before peaking at approximately 14.8 feet early Thursday afternoon. Water levels are then projected to recede, dropping below flood stage by early Sunday afternoon while residual runoff continues downstream. The timeline keeps the warning active into the weekend to account for lingering high water and changing local conditions in flood-prone locations.
Impacts at 14.0 feet and safety guidance
At 14.0 feet flooding may affect Big Cedar, Cowford, and Choctawhatchee River Roads in Walton County, with potential inundation of storage areas beneath homes on the river’s west banks. Low areas along Strickland Road in Washington County may also take on water as levels rise toward the forecast crest. Residents are urged to avoid walking or driving through flooded areas, remain cautious near riverbanks, and contact 911 in emergencies while following instructions from local authorities and forecast updates.
