According to the National Hurricane Center, the storm is currently a Category 3 storm, with winds of 120 mph. The storm is moving north-northeast at 16 mph and is 195 miles south of Pensacola.
The National Weather Service in Mobile expects storm surge anywhere from six to nine feet, which prompted Santa Rosa County officials early Friday to issue an evacuation order for Zone C.
Orders for Zone A and B were given Thursday.
Currently, tropical-storm-force winds extend 205 miles from the center. Hurricane-force winds extend only 35 miles.
State emergency officials expect landfall sometime between 8 and 10 p.m. Tropical-storm-force winds are expected sometime by noon Friday.
Forecasters say there is an increasing threat of flooding and tornadic activity as the day progresses.
Important reminders:
When wind speeds reach above 39 mph, local law enforcement will close bridges to traffic until winds subside.
The county also reminds people in evacuation zones to leave if the order is given, as emergency crews may not be able to reach you if there is a danger to first responders.
Furthermore, officials also ask that you not call 911 unless there is an emergency. The county has a non-emergency line, which is 850-983-4636.
The Milton Community Center is open as a pet-friendly shelter for those who need it.
