Residents Encouraged to Monitor Tropical Depression #2

Escambia County residents are encouraged to monitor Tropical Depression #2, which is expected to continue to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha by Monday evening, July 20, according to the U.S. National Weather Service. While there is still uncertainty in the storm's eventual track, residents are reminded to remain weather aware.

Although Escambia County is currently outside the track of the storm, a Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for portions of Escambia County, coastal Northwest Florida and Alabama, with potential impacts including tropical storm-force winds, locally heavy rain in coastal areas, hazardous marine conditions, dangerous surf, and rip currents.

Rip Current Safety

All Escambia County beaches will be at a High Risk of rip currents beginning Monday evening, July 20, and continuing through Friday, July 24. During this time, life-threatening rip currents are possible in the surf zone. Click here for rip current safety information. Follow the posted beach condition flag warnings. Beach conditions can be checked at PensacolaBeachLifeguards.com and on the Pensacola Beach Lifeguards Facebook page.

Sand for Flood-Prone Areas

Escambia County is offering sand for residents living in flood-prone areas starting Monday, July 20. The sand is available on a first come, first served basis and locations are open 24 hours a day. Residents must bring their own sandbags and shovels to one of the following locations. Click here for sand locations.

Follow these tips to stay safe during severe weather:

• Pay extra attention to local weather reports until the storm has moved through the area. Be sure to keep your cell phone charged to ensure you can receive weather alerts. 
• With the possibility of high winds, it is recommended that any lightweight outside furniture or equipment be secured.
• Organizations with planned outside activities should be weather aware and take appropriate actions. 

For more information, monitor the local media and legitimate online and social media sources like Escambia County Emergency Management and US National Weather Service Mobile. Residents can sign up for Alert Escambia emergency updates through the Emergency Management website.

More information on what to do before, during and after a storm is available online at MyEscambia.com/BeReady. Residents can follow Escambia County Emergency Management on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and updates on emergencies impacting our community.

Weather update from the U.S. National Weather Service (updated July 20)