Storm Updates and Impact Reports in the Southeast

Long Lines at Gas Stations in Florida

An NBC News audio engineer observed a line of about 150 vehicles at a gas station between Destin and Pensacola, Florida, highlighting potential fuel supply concerns or rising demand.

Southern California Prepares for Tropical Storm Rachel

As Tropical Storm Rachel approaches, Southern California faces coastal flooding. Waves between 5 and 9 feet high, combined with high tide, threaten to flood areas from Malibu to San Diego.

Newport Beach faced flooding on Balboa Boulevard, and Rachel is expected in Baja California soon, bringing rain and winds to the Southwest U.S.

Flooding and Tornado Risks Persist Post-Isaias

The remnants of Isaias continue to bring rain and wind across the eastern U.S. Despite weakening, the storm leaves 10 million people from Florida to Virginia under flood alerts, with potential rainfall totals over 5 inches.

Additionally, about 22 million from Louisiana to Pennsylvania face wind alerts, with gusts reaching 60 mph.

Florida Officials Monitor Storm Recovery

Florida begins to reopen businesses and roads post-storm. However, river crests signal possible renewed flooding over the next few days.

Gov. Ron DeSantis reported downed trees causing outages but stated infrastructure held well. Over 430,000 remain without power from prior outages.

Storm’s Fatalities and Damage Overview

Isaias-related deaths rise to four, with two fatalities reported in Alabama. In Florida’s Escambia County, two storm-related fatalities occurred due to downed trees and generator misuse. Alabama experiences additional deaths from tree-related incidents.

Power Outages Across Southern States

Around 700,000 remain without power across states hit by Isaias. Florida leads with over 420,000 without service, followed by Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

Pensacola Hotel Wreckage

Drone footage shows significant damage to the Rest and Relax Inn in Pensacola, Florida. Debris surrounds the site, with roofing materials displaced during the storm, compelling a temporary closure.

More Storm Developments: Simon and Rachel

Tropical Storm Rachel nears Baja California, potentially impacting Southern California with winds reaching 60 mph. Hurricane Simon intensifies and is headed for Mexico, bringing dangerous weather conditions.

Public Services and Activities Affected

Pensacola State College remains closed due to power outages. The closure affects all campus activities. In contrast, Tallahassee International Airport stays open, assisting hurricane recovery efforts.

Some Waffle House locations close temporarily, marking the storm’s severity, a notable event as the chain is known to remain open during storms.

Public Safety Messages

Authorities stress caution with potential hazards from downed trees and power lines. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis both urge safety as recovery continues from Isaias.