OKALOOSA COUNTY − Patrick Maddox, director of public safety at the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners, has provided an update regarding the local effects of Tropical Storm Bertha.
In a July 22 email, sent in the late morning to the media and other stakeholders, Maddox stated Bertha continues to push west of the Panhandle.
“Tropical Storm Bertha continues to slowly push west of our area, thankfully with minimal interruption to our daily grind,” the email reads. “Aside from some power outages, dangerous marine and surf conditions, downed powerlines and trees, a wayward sailboat breaking loose from its mooring and some spectacular photo opportunities, we currently appear no worse for the wear.”
Maddox also stated there is a coastal push northward from the Gulf which can be a continuation of dangerous marine conditions and minor coastal inundation of 1-2 feet.
“Just because that circulation is sheared and isn’t pushing a rain shield doesn’t mean that the circulation is absent. Low pressure systems rotate counterclockwise in the northern hemisphere, so with Bertha being west of us now, the circulation still pushes the Gulf of America and wind toward our coast.
“Some bursts of rain and gusty winds will continue in any lingering bands which run ashore, but it won’t be a washout by any means. Remain weather aware as always and respect the double red flags at the beach,” he wrote.
As of 1 p.m., the tropical storm warning was no longer in effect for northwest Florida.
For the latest on the storm as it moves west, please check here.
dcsmith@usatodayco.com
This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: How did Okaloosa County fare during Tropical Storm Bertha?
Reporting by DeonTay Smith, Panama City News Herald / Northwest Florida Daily News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By DeonTay Smith, Panama City News Herald | USA TODAY Network
