EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Hurricane Michael is now a Category 3 (major) hurricane.
The storm continues to move north at 12 miles per hour. Michael’s sustained winds have increased to 105 knots (120 mph). The track remains consistent, with expected landfall as a strong Category 3 hurricane near Panama City Oct. 10 around 1 p.m. Eglin should receive sustained winds of 50 kts (57 mph) with gusts up to 65 kts (75 mph) at the time of landfall.
As the system nears the Florida Panhandle, impacts to Eglin will be high winds, localized heavy rainfall that can result in flooding, and the potential for isolated tornadoes (especially to the east).
The 96th Test Wing commander will decide about the return to normal base operations Oct. 10 and reporting times for base personnel will be posted on Facebook and the base website when finalized.
See the list of base closures for Oct. 10.