Hurricane Isaias, the first major hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season, has resulted in at least two fatalities and left approximately 800,000 residents across the southeastern United States without power. The storm made landfall near Destin, Florida, on Friday evening as a Category 2 system, subsequently weakening as it tracked inland through Alabama throughout the night.
Local emergency officials reported that one person died in Birmingham, Alabama, after a falling tree struck their home overnight. In Florida’s Escambia County, authorities confirmed a second death caused by a tree during the storm. However, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stated on Saturday that state officials had not yet independently verified any storm-related fatalities, including the report from Escambia County.
Isaias hit the coast with sustained wind speeds of 169 km/h (105 mph), battering the Florida Panhandle with heavy rain and intense gusts. By Saturday morning, the system had degraded into a post-tropical cyclone with winds dropping to around 55 km/h (35 mph). Despite the weakening winds, the aftermath has been severe. More than 900,000 customers across Florida, Alabama, and Georgia lost power early Saturday, with that figure declining to under 800,000 later in the day according to PowerOutage.us.
Fallen trees and downed power lines caused significant disruptions, while flooding led to road closures in southern Alabama, including Houston County. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey expressed concern on Saturday regarding strong winds, heavy rainfall, and the potential for spinoff tornadoes.
In Pensacola, Florida, local officials reported damage to the airport and a hotel with its roof torn off. Strong winds and rain persisted even as the storm moved inland, leaving some residents without electricity and blocking roads with debris.
Officials cautioned that dangerous conditions may continue despite the storm’s decline. Heavy rainfall poses a threat of flash flooding across parts of the Southeast. “The flooding story is not over,” DeSantis warned, noting that saturated ground and continued rain could trigger hazardous flooding for up to two days after the storm passes. He affirmed that state search and rescue resources would remain on standby for potential water rescues.
Additionally, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a warning for residents to be vigilant against predatory contractors attempting to exploit storm victims as homeowners begin repair efforts.
The flooding warning is no joke. Saturated ground means even light rain could cause serious issues for days.
Predatory contractors are the worst part. Please everyone, check references before hiring anyone who knocks on your door.
Wait, the governor hasn’t verified the deaths yet? That seems odd given local reports are pretty clear.
800k without power is insane. How are people even charging phones or keeping food cold in this heat?
Terrifying to think about the families dealing with fallen trees. Sending prayers to Alabama and Florida right now.