Tropical Cyclone Local Statement

HLSTBW

This product covers West Central and Southwest Florida

**LIFE THREATENING STORM SURGE POSSIBLE ALONG THE COAST OF LEVY COUNTY**

NEW INFORMATION ---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Coastal Levy

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for Coastal Levy

* STORM INFORMATION: - About 800 miles west-southwest of Cedar Key FL - 22.4N 93.6W - Storm Intensity 45 mph - Movement East-northeast or 70 degrees at 8 mph

SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------

Tropical Storm Isaias is forecast to lift into the northern Gulf region into the weekend. While there is currently no concerns for tropical storm force winds in the local area, there is the potential for storm surge of up to 4 feet along the coast from Suwannee River to Yankeetown. A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for this potential.

* Storm Surge - Life threatening storm surge is possible Friday into Saturday. Potential peak surge amounts up to 4 feet from the Suwannee River to Yankeetown.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS -----------------

* SURGE: Prepare for life-threatening surge having possible significant impacts across Coastal Levy County. Potential impacts in this area include: - Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated by waves. Damage to several buildings, mainly near the coast. - Sections of near-shore escape routes and secondary roads become weakened or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable low spots. - Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong and numerous rip currents. - Moderate damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers. Several small craft broken away from moorings, especially in unprotected anchorages.

Also, prepare for locally hazardous surge having possible limited impacts across coastal Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco Counties.

Elsewhere across West Central and Southwest Florida, little to no impact is anticipated.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ----------------------------------

* EVACUATIONS: Follow the advice of local officials.

* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: Now is the time to check your emergency plan and emergency supplies kit and take necessary actions to protect your family and secure your home or business.

When making safety and preparedness decisions, do not focus on the exact forecast track since hazards such as flooding rain, damaging wind gusts, storm surge, and tornadoes extend well away from the center of the storm.

Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with orders that are issued. Do not needlessly jeopardize your life or the lives of others.

* ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION: - For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov - For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org - For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org

NEXT UPDATE -----------

The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin FL around 5 PM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.