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Record Hurricane Season Starts Late: Isaias Forms!
9 Oct
Summary
- Isaias became the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season on October 7th.
- The storm has strengthened to 100 mph winds and is nearing the northern Gulf Coast.
- Oil production in the Gulf of Mexico has been significantly impacted by the storm.
Hurricane Isaias made history as the first Atlantic hurricane of the 2026 season, forming late on October 7th. As of a 5 p.m. advisory on October 8th, 2026, the storm’s winds had reached 100 mph. Officials urged immediate preparations for storm surge and high winds in the warning areas. The hurricane was expected to pass north of the Yucatan Peninsula and make landfall near Pensacola by late Friday or early Saturday.
In response to potential impacts, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 25 counties, primarily in the Panhandle and Big Bend regions. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey issued a similar declaration for 40 counties. Offshore oil and gas producers shut down about 25% of Gulf production, equivalent to 511,000 barrels daily, due to the storm's approach.
Cities like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in Alabama recommended voluntary evacuations for low-lying areas. Pensacola utilities pre-positioned repair crews, and city officials provided sand for sandbags. Residents were urged to check on vulnerable neighbors, emphasizing preparedness over panic. The storm's path also raised concerns about disrupting the upcoming Georgia-Alabama college football game.
