Flooding was reported at multiple locations throughout Okaloosa County on Monday, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, which shared photos of the flooding.
“With reports of flooding at multiple locations throughout the county, please use caution if you’re heading out and about,” the Sheriff’s Office wrote.
The agency issued a traffic advisory for Okaloosa Island at 7:30 a.m. because of flooding. All eastbound traffic from Brooks Bridge was being rerouted through the Convention Center, and westbound traffic was reduced to one lane, according to the advisory.
The Sheriff’s Office asked drivers to seek alternate routes, expect delays and use caution in the area.
The National Weather Service in Mobile has a Flood Watch in effect until noon Monday for coastal and inland Okaloosa County, along with Escambia and Santa Rosa counties and portions of southwest Alabama.
Additional heavy rainfall will be possible through the morning hours, according to the Flood Watch issued at 10:41 a.m. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts of up to 5 inches possible, according to the National Weather Service.
“This may lead to flash flooding, especially in urban and poor drainage areas,” the National Weather Service wrote.
Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying and flood-prone locations, according to the watch. Storm drains and ditches may also become clogged with debris.
The Sheriff’s Office shared the following guidance:
- Allow extra travel time and watch for road closures.
- Never drive through flooded roads.
- Stay alert for weather updates and traffic advisories.
Drivers cannot tell how deep the water is or whether the roadway beneath it is damaged, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
“Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Please make safe choices and avoid unnecessary travel in flooded areas,” the Sheriff’s Office wrote.
The National Weather Service advised those living in flood-prone areas to be prepared to take action should flooding develop and to be alert for possible Flood Warnings.
