The National Weather Service issued a Severe Flood Warning for Baker, FL and Nassau, FL for the St. Mary’s River at Macclenny in effect through 10 October 2026 at 21:00, after observed river stages rose above flood thresholds.
Why this warning matters for Baker and Nassau counties
The warning listed Severity: Severe Urgency: Immediate and Certainty: Observed and reported an observed stage of 12.4 feet at 8:45 PM EDT Friday against a flood stage of 12.0 feet. Forecast information showed a predicted crest of 12.7 feet the following evening. Local officials advised residents to avoid low-lying areas, move to higher ground if in an affected low area, and to call 911 for life-threatening emergencies. The notice specifically warned to avoid the lower half of St. Mary’s River Bluff Road if water is present and recommended not driving through flooded roadways.
Observed and forecast stages, timing and locations affected
At 8:45 PM EDT Friday the river stage was recorded at 12.4 feet, exceeding the 12.0-foot flood stage and prompting the Severe Flood Warning for areas including Macclenny and Charlton County locations adjacent to the river. The forecast crest of 12.7 feet was expected the next evening, and the advisory noted that minor flooding was occurring and minor flooding was forecast. The alert named both Baker and Nassau as affected counties and included specific roadway concerns along River Bluff Road near the St. Mary’s River.
Authorities instructed residents to follow NWS and local emergency service directions, to avoid the lower half of River Bluff Road if water is present, and to refrain from driving through flooded roadways. For life-threatening emergencies responders recommended calling 911. The warning advised staying tuned for updates with the next statement scheduled for Saturday evening at 900 PM EDT. Last update: 11 October 2026.
