ALLIGATOR POINT
Franklin County, Florida
Last Updated: 8/14/2026, 6:01:17 AM
Active Weather Alerts
Heat Advisory issued August 14 at 12:38PM EDT until August 15 at 7:00PM EDT by NWS Tallahassee FL
* WHAT...For the Extreme Heat Warning today, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 113. For the Heat Advisory on Saturday, heat index values up to 111 expected. * WHERE...Portions of Big Bend and Panhandle Florida. * WHEN...For the Extreme Heat Warning, until 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ this evening. For the Heat Advisory, from 11 AM EDT /10 AM CDT/ to 7 PM EDT /6 PM CDT/ Saturday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.
Special Marine Warning issued August 14 at 7:41PM EDT until August 14 at 9:45PM EDT by NWS Tallahassee FL
SMWTAE The National Weather Service in Tallahassee has issued a * Special Marine Warning for... Apalachee Bay or Coastal Waters From Keaton Beach to Ochlockonee River Fl out to 20 Nm... Coastal Waters From Ochlockonee River to Apalachicola FL out to 20 Nm... Coastal waters from Suwannee River to Keaton Beach out 20 NM... Waters from Suwannee River to Apalachicola FL from 20 to 60 NM... * Until 945 PM EDT. * At 741 PM EDT, strong thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 17 nm west of St. Marks to 34 nm northeast of Buckeye Reef, moving south at 30 knots. HAZARD...Wind gusts 34 knots or greater. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Expect wind gusts in excess of 34 knots...suddenly higher waves...frequent lightning...and heavy downpours. Make sure all on board are wearing life jackets. * Locations impacted include... Buckeye Reef, O Tower, Horseshoe Beach, K Tower, and Marker 24 Barge.
Extreme Heat Warning issued August 14 at 12:38PM EDT until August 14 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Tallahassee FL
* WHAT...For the Extreme Heat Warning today, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 113. For the Heat Advisory on Saturday, heat index values up to 111 expected. * WHERE...Portions of Big Bend and Panhandle Florida. * WHEN...For the Extreme Heat Warning, until 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ this evening. For the Heat Advisory, from 11 AM EDT /10 AM CDT/ to 7 PM EDT /6 PM CDT/ Saturday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.
Current Water Quality Status
Water quality is good for swimming and recreational activities.
Is it Safe to Swim?
No Current Advisory
Based on the latest testing, water quality meets acceptable standards for recreational use.
General Safety Tips
- Always check current conditions before swimming
- Avoid swimming after heavy rainfall when bacteria levels may be higher
- Don't swim if you have open wounds or compromised immune system
- Shower immediately after swimming in natural waters
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun exposure
Recent Water Quality History
| Date | Enterococcus Level | Status | Advisory |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8/10/2026 (Latest) | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 8/5/2026 | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 8/3/2026 | 600 | Poor | ✅ No |
| 7/27/2026 | 14 | Good | ✅ No |
| 7/20/2026 | 600 | Advisory | ⚠️ Yes |
| 7/15/2026 | 21 | Good | ✅ No |
| 7/13/2026 | 260 | Poor | ✅ No |
| 7/9/2026 | 6 | Good | ✅ No |
| 7/7/2026 | 390 | Poor | ✅ No |
| 6/29/2026 | 30 | Good | ✅ No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vibrio and how can I avoid it?
Vibrio is a type of bacteria that lives in warm seawater. To avoid it, do not swim with open wounds, and avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish. If you get a cut while in the water, wash it immediately with soap and clean water.
How is the water quality tested at the beach?
Water quality is typically tested for enterococci (a type of fecal indicator bacteria) and sometimes E. coli. Samples are collected and analyzed in a lab. The results help determine if the water is safe for swimming.
What does an ‘advisory’ for water quality mean?
An advisory means that recent tests have shown high levels of bacteria in the water, which can increase your risk of illness. It is recommended to avoid swimming or wading until the advisory is lifted.
Is it safe to swim after it rains?
It is generally recommended to avoid swimming for at least 24-48 hours after heavy rainfall. Rain can wash pollutants and bacteria from the land into the water, temporarily increasing health risks.
What do the different colored lifeguard flags mean?
Green flag: Low hazard, calm conditions. Yellow flag: Medium hazard, moderate surf/currents. Red flag: High hazard, strong surf/currents. Double red flag: Water is closed to the public. Purple flag: Dangerous marine life spotted.
What should I do if I see a jellyfish?
If you see a jellyfish, it’s best to avoid it. Even beached jellyfish can sting. If you are stung, rinse the area with vinegar if available, and carefully remove any tentacles with a towel or tweezers. Seek medical attention if you have a severe reaction.
Are sharks a common threat at Florida beaches?
Shark attacks are very rare. To reduce your risk, avoid swimming at dawn or dusk, don’t swim alone, and avoid wearing shiny jewelry. Most sharks are not interested in humans.
Can I get sick from swallowing beach water?
Yes, swallowing water contaminated with bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illness (stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting). Try to avoid swallowing water while swimming.
How can I protect marine life while at the beach?
You can help protect marine life by properly disposing of your trash, not feeding wildlife, and keeping a safe distance from animals like sea turtles and nesting birds. Also, use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs.