SRC: Tropical Depression Lee update

The emergency operation center remains at a level 3, or monitoring phase.

Staff continue to monitor weather conditions and river levels. At this time there have been no major storm impacts. Overnight and into earlier morning, sporadic and short-term power outages throughout the county were reported.

Storm Information as Currently Forecasted by the National Weather Service

· A tornado watch is in effect with tornado warnings possible through late afternoon. Residents should stay alert for the quick development of short lived tornadoes.

· A flood warning is in effect until 7:15 p.m. Excessive runoff from heavy rainfall will cause flooding of small creeks and streams, highways and underpasses. Country roads and farmlands along the banks of creeks, streams and other low lying areas are subject to flooding

· A flash flood watch has been issued. Heavy rainfall, with amounts as high as three to five inches, is possible. Rainfall could come in a short periods of time with severe thunderstorms.

· A high wind warning is in effect for Santa Rosa. Winds today could reach up to 30-35 mph with gusts as high as 45 mph.

· High surf advisory in effect with onshore winds and ocean swells will continue the threat for high waves, high tides and deadly rip currents.

River Levels

· Two families on Marshall Road and one on Ward Basin Road voluntarily evacuated last night due to concerns of flooding.

· While rivers are currently only expected to reach minor flood stage, residents living near rivers and creeks are urged to monitor water levels on exit roads as driving through raising flood waters is extremely dangerous.

· The river levels are expected to continue to rise. At 11 a.m. on Monday, September 5, the river readings were:

o Big Cold Water Creek at Milton- 6.81 feet, forecasted to peak at 9.3 feet today, Monday, September 5. Flood stage is 10 feet.

o Blackwater River at Baker- 3.12 feet, forecasted to peak at 7 feet on Wednesday, September 7. Flood stage is 11 feet.

o Yellow River at Milliagan- 1.18 feet, forecasted to peak at 8.1 on Tuesday, September 6. Flood stage is 12 feet.

o Escambia River at Century - 4 feet, forecasted to peak at 10.7 on Wednesday, September 7. Flood stage is 17 feet.

Beach Conditions

· Double red flags are currently flying at Navarre Beach, indicating the water is closed to the public.

· Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed the double red flag warnings and stay out of the water as deadly rip currents and rough surf conditions are present.

Gulf Island National Seashore

· Due to flooding from rain and high surf and sand on the roadways, Gulf Islands National Seashore temporarily closed the Santa Rosa Area including J. Earle Bowden Way between Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach on SR 399 on Sunday, September 4. Park staff is clearing sand off the seven-mile section of roadway and it will remain closed until sand removal is complete. For more information please contact the Naval Live Oaks Visitor Center at 850-934-2600 and the Fort Pickens Road hotline number at 850-934-2656.

Traffic Conditions

· No current closures. Road and bridge staff are on standby to respond as needed and any closures will be announced as they occur.

· Localized flooding has been reported on:

o South end of Ward Basin Road near Brown's Fish Camp

o Northwest end of Marshall Road, the very end is impassable, blocking entrance to the last two homes on the road.

o East Madura Road, it is currently open with hazards.

General Safety Information

· www.santarosa.fl.gov or follow us on Twitter at @SRCBOCC

· Please monitor your home weather radio and local media outlets for the most up-to-date information.

· Your best defense in any disaster is a NOAA Weather radio.

· Citizens can signup to automatically receive breaking news alerts from Santa Rosa County Emergency Management via e-mail or as a text message on their cell phone at: http://www.santarosa.fl.gov/emergency/publicwarning.html