DeSantis Declares State Of Emergency For 25 FL Counties Ahead Of Tropical System

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday declared a state of emergency for 25 counties as the state prepares for potential impacts from Tropical Depression Nine, which officials say could threaten portions of the Panhandle and Big Bend.

DeSantis said he signed Executive Order 26-202 to give state and local officials additional time and resources to prepare as forecasters closely monitor a developing tropical system in the Gulf.

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The emergency declaration covers the following counties: Baker, Bay, Calhoun, Columbia, Dixie, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Taylor, Walton, Wakulla and Washington.

"This order ensures communities have the time and resources necessary to prepare for potential severe weather impacts to the Panhandle and Big Bend region of Florida," DeSantis said on X Tuesday evening.

As Patch previously reported, the National Hurricane Center said a broad area of low pressure in the southwestern Gulf was becoming better organized and is expected to become the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season.

The NHC earlier on Tuesday placed the system's chances of development at 90% over both the next 48 hours.

DeSantis urged Floridians to begin preparations now rather than wait for the system to move closer to the state.

"Floridians should have their plans in place, keep emergency supply kits fully stocked," DeSantis said.

Residents in potentially affected areas should continue monitoring forecasts, as the system's track, intensity and potential impacts could change as it moves across the Gulf.

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