Tropical Storm Isaac moves towards Louisiana, Walton downgraded to tropical storm warning

August 27, 2012

At 10 a.m. Aug. 27, 2012 winds starting to pick up, however wave action, surge not yet affecting South Walton. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

Walton County could expect sustained winds from 35-45 mph waves 10 – 14 ft.

Based on the continued monitoring of information gathered from sources such as the National Hurricane Service, the State and Local Emergency Operations Centers, and the latest forecast, the following actions are being instituted by the Walton County EOC.

– Clyde B Wells/331 Bridge will remain open to both north and south bound traffic.  We will continue to monitor the winds hourly, but at this time we do not anticipate a closure.

-The mandatory evacuations for Walton County have been lifted however a voluntary evacuation will remain in place.

-The Freeport High School Shelter will remain open until conditions can be re-assessed tomorrow.

-Walton County Schools will continue to be closed for Tuesday, August 28, 2012.

-Walton County Government offices and the Walton County Courthouse (north and south end) will re-open on Tuesday, August 28, 2012 on their normal schedule.  The TDC will be closed tomorrow.

-Walton County Beach Flags will continue to be Double Red.  The beaches, waters, and beach accesses will be closed and will be reassessed Tuesday morning, August 28, 2012.

Residents and tourists should continue to practice caution as weather will still be unstable as the storm moves through our area. We continue to anticipate rainfall in the 4-6 inch range, storm surge of 3-5 ft, and winds of 35-45 mph with gusts of up to 55 m.p.h.