News Archive

Hurricane Isaias now has sustained winds of 100 mph and was just upgraded to a Category 2 storm.

Residents and visitors on Navarre Beach have been ordered to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Isaias’ landfall, which is expected to take place sometime Friday night, Oct. 9.

With Hurricane Isaias expected to impact the Gulf Coast, Baptist Health Care is closely monitoring conditions and making adjustments to ensure the safety of their patients and team members. As of this morning, the network of healthcare offices and hospitals said several locations will remain open through the storm but some specialty care centers will close. 

Santa Rosa County commissioners declared a local state of emergency Thursday as Hurricane Isaias approached the Gulf Coast.

Out of an abundance of caution, the 1st Special Operations Wing commander has directed a targeted evacuation for residents of all Hurlburt Field privatized military housing and FAMCamp effective no later than 5:00 p.m., Oct. 8, 2026.

Santa Rosa County residents in coastal and low-lying areas should make evacuation plans now, with impacts from Tropical Storm Isaias expected to begin Friday.

More than 120,000 renters insurance policyholders in Florida can expect a rate decrease this month.

Florida Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky recently approved American Modern Home Insurance Company for an average 12.8 percent rate decrease for HO-4 policies. The decrease will affect 121,898 exposures. The rate change is effective Oct. 11 for new policies and renewals.

On Oct. 17, from 3 to 5 p.m., Spirit Stables in East Milton will host a “Wild West Hoedown” to support Horse Healing, a nonprofit connecting people with equine therapy resources.

The hoedown will include face painting, kids crafts, a feeding station, hayrides, a chili competition and games for children. There will also be a “jailhouse” where you can lock up friends and family. While the event is free to attend, the activities are ticketed.

Santa Rosa County Commission Chairman Colten Wright said Oct. 6 that the county will not rush a decision on the proposed Navarre Beach Boardwalk.

Santa Rosa County could see another 5 to 7 inches of rain from a disorganized weather system in the southwestern Gulf, and residents should use the next few days to make sure they are ready, according to forecasters from the National Weather Service in Mobile.