Hurricane Ian is now a Category 4 Hurricane and may become a Category 5 before making landfall today in the Tampa area. Surrounding areas may experience Tropical Storm force winds well into the panhandle area. Panama City Beach and Santa Rosa Beach are now receiving evacuees from the storm.
Panama City Beach and Santa Rosa Beach may experience some storm surge winds (5% chance per National Storm Center maps – see links below). Rip Tide warnings are also in effect in parts of the Gulf area, so please monitor flags and follow guidelines for caution.