Okaloosa County announced Monday that self-service sand and sandbags will be accessible starting at noon on September 23 and will remain available until the storm threat passes.
- This measure is part of the area’s preparation efforts as the tropical system moves toward the region.
Residents can obtain sandbags at two locations:
- Stillwell Park, 710 Essex Rd., Ft. Walton Beach
- Public Works North, 1759 S Ferdon Blvd., Crestview (enter on Goodwin Avenue side)
County officials emphasized that the sandbags are intended for residential use only, not for commercial entities.
As the situation develops, authorities are urging residents to stay informed. “Continue to monitor hurricanes.gov for the latest and stock up your hurricane preparedness kit,” the county statement advised.
- To receive timely updates, residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts and download the hurricane guide, which includes a list of recommended preparedness supplies, at alertokaloosa.com.
The county plans to provide ongoing updates from Okaloosa County Public Safety, the National Weather Service, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management as the storm progresses.
This local response comes as the National Hurricane Center forecasts the system to intensify, potentially becoming a major hurricane before reaching the northeastern Gulf Coast later in the week.
