Bay County Faces Extensive Damage Following Early Morning Storm

BAY COUNTY, FL - In the wake of a severe weather event that struck the Bay County area early on January 9th, Bay County Emergency Services reported receiving distress calls at approximately 5:30 a.m., reporting significant damage in various regions.

Among the areas severely impacted are Thomas Drive and Grand Lagoon in Panama City Beach. Additional reports highlight heavy damage in Indian Bluff Estates in Youngstown, the Bayhead area, and Resota Beach Road near Southport. The St. Andrews area of Panama City has also experienced some level of damage.

Five individuals were transported to a local hospital with injuries as of 3pm, January 9th. Initial estimates suggest that up to 100 people may have been displaced by the storm.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Emergency response efforts are underway, with the American Red Cross of the Central Panhandle (1-800-RED-CROSS) and United Way of Northwest Florida (2-1-1) offering assistance to those in need. The Citizens Information Center is also available at 850-248-6090 for disaster-related information.

Northstar Church and 516project are sending volunteers to help overwhelmed neighborhoods. Call 850-706-5551.

A precursory damage assessment has been completed, and the Property Appraiser’s Office is working on an initial assessment to facilitate a request to the state for a preliminary assessment team. As of now, an accurate dollar figure for the damage assessment remains unavailable.

Individuals with property damage are urged to contact the Citizens Information Center at (850) 248-6090 or email ask@baycountyfl.gov. This information is crucial for identifying the impact of the storm for state reporting purposes.

As of 1 p.m. January 9th, approximately 1,400 households in Bay County are without power. Restoration crews are actively working to address this issue. A curfew is in effect from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. in the east end of Thomas Drive, from the Grand Lagoon Bridge south, and from Hurt Street east to the St. Andrews State Park.

Authorities strongly advise residents to stay out of the affected areas as the recovery and assessment process continues. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and follow official guidance for their safety.