Isaias Hits Florida Panhandle as Category 2 Hurricane

Hurricane Isaias reached the United States as a Category 2 storm after making landfall near Destin, Florida, bringing a major weather event to the Florida Panhandle and marking the first US hurricane landfall since October 2024, according to CNN. The storm struck the Gulf Coast area after strengthening into a Category 2 hurricane before reaching shore. CNN reported the landfall occurred near Destin, a coastal city in northwest Florida.

The arrival of Isaias represented the first hurricane landfall in the United States in nearly two years, according to CNN. The storm's impact added a significant event to the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.

Before the storm reached Florida, forecasts highlighted potential impacts from strong winds and heavy rain across affected areas. Earlier reports noted that residents in parts of the Southeast were preparing for hazardous conditions as Isaias moved through the region.

Central Alabama officials also monitored the storm as its effects extended beyond the immediate landfall zone. WBRC previously reported a First Alert Weather Day because of possible wind gusts and rainfall associated with Isaias. According to WBRC, the strongest winds were expected to shift north of central Alabama after the main impacts, while the system continued moving away from the area. The tornado threat was considered lower locally compared with areas farther east.