The National Weather Service issued a Severe Flood Watch for portions of the Florida Panhandle from 11:00 AM EDT /10:00 AM CDT on October 3, 2026, through Monday morning, October 5, 2026, at 8:00 AM EDT, covering Central Walton, Coastal Gulf, Holmes, Coastal Bay, Inland Bay, Inland Gulf, North Walton, South Walton and Washington counties. Latest update: October 4, 2026.
Why the watch matters
The watch was issued because multiple rounds of heavy rainfall were forecast beginning Saturday afternoon and continuing through at least early Monday morning, increasing the risk of rapid water rises in urban and low-lying areas. The National Weather Service highlighted that additional rainfall amounts of 3 to 6 inches were likely, with locally higher amounts of up to 10 inches possible along parts of the Coastal Gulf and adjacent zones. Residents in affected counties were advised to stay alert for Flash Flood Warnings and to be prepared to move to higher ground if necessary.
Forecast details and timing for affected counties
Forecast guidance showed multiple rain bands expected to impact the region from Saturday into Monday, producing significant runoff into streams, creeks and drainage systems across Central Walton, North Walton and South Walton as well as Inland Bay and Inland Gulf areas. The watch covered Holmes and Washington counties and extended to Coastal Bay and Coastal Gulf zones, underscoring the potential for both urban and flash flooding. Officials reiterated that excessive rainfall amounts — especially locally up to 10 inches — could lead to sudden flooding of roads and low-lying properties.
Safety guidance and emergency contacts
Officials urged residents to monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued; in case of an emergency, dial 911. Advice included avoiding low-lying areas and being ready to move to higher ground, and avoiding walking or driving through floodwaters because moving water can be dangerous. The watch remained in effect through Monday morning, October 5, 2026, at 8:00 AM EDT, and authorities asked communities in the Florida Panhandle to follow updates from local emergency management and the National Weather Service Tallahassee office.
