Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Freeport Area as Tropical Depression Forms Off Florida Coast
The National Weather Service in Tallahassee issued a Tropical Storm Watch for South Walton County, placing Freeport, Santa Rosa Beach, and Sandestin under the watch area as a tropical depression forms off Florida’s west coast.
The watch means tropical storm-force winds of 39 to 57 mph are possible within the next 48 hours across the affected zone, which spans South Walton, Coastal Bay, Coastal Franklin, and Coastal Gulf counties. Current forecasts show peak winds of 10-20 mph with gusts to 25 mph for the Freeport area, though the threat includes typical forecast uncertainty in track, size, and intensity. Residents should plan for hazardous wind conditions equivalent to a tropical storm.
The alert comes from a Tropical Cyclone Local Statement issued by NWS Tallahassee covering the eastern Florida Panhandle, Florida Big Bend, southeastern Alabama, and southwestern Georgia. A companion statement from NWS Mobile extended the watch to coastal Escambia, Okaloosa, and Santa Rosa counties. The system, currently a tropical depression off the west coast of Florida, is being monitored for potential strengthening as it moves toward the northern Gulf Coast.
Walton County Emergency Management urges residents to secure loose outdoor items, review hurricane plans, and stay tuned to official weather channels for updates. The watch may be upgraded to a warning if tropical storm conditions become imminent. Freeport City Hall and Walton County government offices will continue monitoring the system through the weekend.
Originally reported by the National Weather Service Tallahassee.
