Isaias Weakens After Florida Landfall as Flood Threat Continues

Isaias, the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season, weakened into a post-tropical cyclone after making landfall near Destin, Florida, but the storm continued bringing strong winds, flooding threats and power outages across the Southeast.

The National Hurricane Center said Isaias moved inland across Alabama with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph and higher gusts. The storm was expected to dissipate on Sunday while heavy rain remained a threat.

According to power outage data cited by CBS News, more than 884,000 customers in Florida, Alabama and Georgia were without electricity Saturday morning, including 430,443 in Florida, 326,057 in Alabama and 127,905 in Georgia.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey warned residents that officials were monitoring severe conditions as Isaias crossed the state.

"We are worried about strong winds, heavy rain and possible spinoff tornadoes," said Kay Ivey, Alabama Governor.

Ivey urged residents to follow updates from reliable sources as conditions changed. She also emphasized emergency preparedness as the storm continued moving inland.

"We need people to have reliable information," said Kay Ivey, Alabama Governor.

In another statement about emergency preparation, Ivey referenced standard emergency management guidance before describing the state's response approach.

"We often hear in emergency management: Hope for the best. Prepare for the worst," said Kay Ivey, Alabama Governor.

Ivey added that residents should remain alert and follow local warnings as the storm affected communities across the region.

"That is the approach we need with this particular storm system. After all, we only want to see one Tide roll this weekend. Y'all be safe, heed local warnings and stay weather aware," said Kay Ivey, Alabama Governor.

The National Hurricane Center forecast rainfall totals of up to 8 inches across southern Alabama, the Florida Panhandle, Big Bend and southwest Georgia, with localized amounts up to 15 inches possible. The center warned flooding risks would continue.

"This rainfall will produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain," said the National Hurricane Center.

Federal emergency declarations were approved for Florida and Alabama to support storm response efforts. Florida, Alabama and Georgia governors had issued emergency measures before and after landfall.

"This emergency declaration will help cut tape for our federal partners to aid in any response. We will continue to stay engaged with the Trump Administration and other partners as we brace for this storm. Fellow Alabamians, y'all stay weather aware," said Kay Ivey, Alabama Governor.

The Department of Homeland Security said federal agencies were prepared to assist state leaders managing the storm's effects.

"(The Department of Homeland Security) and FEMA stand ready to support DeSantis and Ivey as they lead efforts to protect lives and communities," said Markwayne Mullin, DHS Secretary.