Hurricane Sally – Update #5 – 9/15/2020

University of Florida officials are continuing to monitor Hurricane Sally. Here is what we know today:

Due to a continued eastward shift of Hurricane Sally, Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in the Panhandle are under hurricane warning.  The National Hurricane Center warns that historical flooding is possible with flash flooding in the western Panhandle through Wednesday.

Tropical storm warnings are in effect for coastal Okaloosa, Walton, coastal Bay, and coastal Gulf, Holmes, and Washington counties. Storm surge warnings are in effect for coastal Escambia, coastal Santa Rosa, and coastal Okaloosa counties.

Flash flood watch remains in effect through Thursday morning for the Panhandle. Major rainfall flooding and moderate to major riverine flooding are possible.  A tornado watch has been issued for the Panhandle until 6 p.m. and will likely be extended into Wednesday. A few tornadoes could be possible as rain bands move ashore.

UF units with operations in Florida’s Panhandle should be prepared for tropical storm-force winds through Wednesday along with significant flooding and should closely monitor forecasts and follow guidance from local officials.

No tropical storm warnings or watches are currently in place for Alachua County, and no operational changes are anticipated for the UF campus in Gainesville. We will continue to monitor and update the UF community on expected impacts or schedule changes.

For additional information, please visit National Hurricane Center.