Hurricane Isaias strikes the US Gulf Coast as the first storm of the 2026 Atlantic season

Tropical Storm Isaias formed in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, and rapidly intensified into the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season. The storm moved north-northeast toward the United States, prompting states of emergency in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. As the system intensified, it reached Category 2 status, with some reports citing potential strength of up to 160-169 km/h and others noting higher peak estimates. Residents were issued mandatory evacuation orders in various coastal areas, including parts of Alabama, while 5,000 National Guard troops were mobilized to assist.

By late Friday, October 9, the hurricane made landfall near Destin, Florida, as a Category 2 storm. Following the impact, it began to weaken to Category 1 status as it moved inland. The storm caused significant infrastructure damage, leaving over 594,000 customers without electricity across Florida and Alabama. Authorities have reported widespread disruptions, including school closures and road congestion due to evacuations. Emergency crews remain on high alert to assess damage and manage ongoing flooding risks as the system progresses across the region.