TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) \u2014 Thursday, October 8th: Below are the top stories WTXL ABC 27 is following around the Big Bend, South Georgia, nationally, and your forecast.<\/p>\n
1) Isaias strengthens into a hurricane<\/a>. Isaias became a hurricane overnight and strengthened further this morning. The highest winds are now at 80 mph and the air-pressure dropped to 9779 mb. The pathway is still expecting a landfall around the Mobile area Friday night. Meteorologist Ryan Gold<\/a> has more details on that and your Thursday forecast<\/a>.<\/p>\n Tracking Isaias 10-8-2026 5 A.M. Update<\/p>\n 2) Isaias sparks state of emergency in 25 Florida counties as Big Bend coastal communities prepare<\/a>. Wakulla and Franklin counties are on high alert as Isaias moves north through the Gulf, prompting emergency preparations for businesses and residents.<\/p>\n Isaias sparks state of emergency in 25 Florida counties as Big Bend coastal communities prepare<\/p>\n 3) Leon County schools seek $30M short-term loan to cover payroll while waiting for property tax revenue<\/a>. The school board is expected to vote Tuesday, Oct. 13 on borrowing up to $30 million at a fixed 3.95% interest rate.<\/p>\n Leon County schools seek $30M short-term loan to cover payroll while waiting for property tax revenue<\/p>\n 4) Downtown Tallahassee recovering after an underground electrical fire while city investigation continues<\/a>. The fire in downtown Tallahassee disrupted traffic, business and government operations.<\/p>\n Downtown Tallahassee recovering after an underground electrical fire while city investigation continues<\/p>\n 5) Bainbridge single mom loses nearly $1,000 to fake TikTok rental listing<\/a>. County officials say scams have cost local residents hundreds of thousands of dollars.<\/p>\n Bainbridge single mom loses nearly $1,000 to fake TikTok rental listing, Decatur County officials warn<\/p>\n Want to see more local news? Visit the WTXL ABC 27 Website.<\/a><\/p>\n Stay in touch with us anywhere, anytime.<\/p>\n Like us on Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n Follow us on\u00a0Instagram <\/a>and X.<\/a><\/p>\n