Florida Department of Corrections Evacuates Inmates

State officials moved thousands of prisoners ahead of the expected arrival of Hurricane Isaias.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Forecasts

Florida Department of Corrections Evacuates Inmates

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The Florida Department of Corrections evacuated thousands of inmates from multiple facilities as a precaution against Hurricane Isaias. The operation involved relocating prisoners from centers in Century and Pensacola to ensure safety.

Why it matters

The preemptive relocation was a necessary safety measure for the incarcerated population during the severe storm. It also prompted widespread scheduling changes for families expecting to visit facilities across the northern region of the state.

The agency moved thousands of prisoners out of facilities including the Century Work Camp and the Pensacola Community Release Center. The scope of the evacuation remains under final internal audit by state officials.

The players

Florida Department of Corrections

This is the state agency responsible for the administration and oversight of the prison system and rehabilitation centers throughout Florida.

The details

Prisoner transport buses were observed moving inmates along North Century Boulevard to facilitate the evacuation process. Weekend visitation was also suspended at all Region I and Region II institutions across North Florida during the storm event.

October 12, 2026: Prisoner transport buses operated on North Century Boulevard.

Seasonal Patterns

This evacuation follows the protocols of the Florida Department of Corrections Emergency Management Plan for handling inmates during severe weather. These operations align with historical precedents for state correctional facilities facing major hurricanes in North Florida.

Residents in North Florida should continue to monitor local government channels for updates regarding the resumption of standard visitation schedules at correctional institutions. Visitors should verify facility status before traveling to avoid arriving at closed locations.

The takeaway

Maintaining the safety of inmates during extreme weather requires complex logistical coordination and significant transportation resources. Families with loved ones in the system should keep updated contact information on file to receive automated notifications about facility accessibility.