Subtropical Storm Alberto Update #4

(Newest information is highlighted) 

Essential Information

• The track forecast was again shifted slightly westward. Landfall is now forecast early this afternoon near Destin. The storm has maintained its intensity at 65 mph. Little change in strength is anticipated before Alberto reaches the coast this afternoon. Latest storm observations is showing a northerly shift in track which could reduce the impacts felt in Escambia County.
• The highest wind speeds from Tropical Storm Alberto should occur near 1 p.m. when top sustained winds, from the north, could reach 48 MPH with gusts near 58 MPH. Winds should decrease below gale force four hours later. Winds should decrease four hours later.
  • RVs on the barrier islands and open areas in the county should prepare their vehicle for the windy conditions by bringing in/or securing all furniture and taking down any type of awnings. 
  • Take extra care when driving a high-profile vehicle especially on bridges during the peak wind times as trucks, vans, SUVs, RVs or those towing items are more prone to being pushed by high winds.
• The risk for deadly rip currents through at least the next several days continues. Red flags are currently flying, closing the water for waders and swimmers. Dangerous rip currents can also be present in yellow flag conditions. Learn more here.
• Emergency Management staff have been monitoring the track of the storm overnight and county staff and partner agencies are ready to respond if need for Alberto. 

Storm Information Forecast by the National Weather Service in Mobile for Sunday, May 27 through Tuesday, May 29

• Winds could reach 48 MPH with gusts near 58 MPH. 
• 3-5" of rain is possible
• High risk of rip currents continues through at least the next several days. 
• High surf of 5-9 feet through at least early Wednesday.

• Tropical Storm Warning
• Flash Flood Watch

Road Closures

• Highway 399 between Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach has been closed by the Gulf Islands National Seashore

Law enforcement will monitor bridges for safety at sustained (not gusts) wind speeds of 39 mph or greater for each specific bridge location. Any closures will be posted on the Escambia County Emergency Management Facebook, and residents can also check for local road closures from the following sources:

• Check for Escambia County road closures 24/7 at www.myescambia.com/roadissuesmap.
• City of Pensacola road closures can be viewed here.
• For the latest closures and updates, travelers can access Florida's 511 service from cell phones, landlines and online at www.FL511.com.

Pensacola International Airport

Airport management is monitoring Subtropical Storm Alberto and staying in close contact with the local Emergency Management officials and with the airlines. All  travelers should monitor their airline’s website for information relative to their specific flight.

Office Closures

• Escambia County Board of County Commissioners, Escambia County Property Appraiser, Escambia County Tax Collector, Escambia County Area Transit administrative offices, Escambia County Supervisor of Elections office, Escambia County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller's office, Escambia County Animal Shelter, West Florida Public Libraries (All locations) will be closed on Monday, May 28 for Memorial Day. Normal operations will resume Tuesday, May 29.
• City of Pensacola offices will be closed on Monday, May 28 for Memorial Day. Normal operations will resume Tuesday, May 29. 

•  At this time, all University of West Florida locations are scheduled to remain open on Tuesday, May 29. University officials will continue to monitor the storm and update the campus community, as conditions change.

• At this time, all Pensacola State College campuses and centers will resume normal operations on Tuesday, May 29.   

Gulf Islands National Seashore

• Fort Pickens and Opal Beach are closed
• Closures are expected to last through at least Tuesday, but this could vary significantly as the storm progresses.