Hurricane Isaias Lashes Florida with Heavy Rain and Winds Ahead of Landfall

Heavy rain and strong winds are battering parts of Florida as Category 3 Hurricane Isaias approaches the continental United States. The storm, packing maximum sustained winds of 115 mph, is expected to make landfall later today. Coastal communities are already experiencing the outer bands of the hurricane, with reports of downed trees and power outages. WJHG reporter Delaney Smith reports from Walton County, Florida, where residents are hunkering down. Emergency officials are urging people to stay off the roads and to be prepared for extended power outages. Shelters have opened across the region, and evacuation orders are in place for some areas. The hurricane is expected to bring life-threatening storm surge and flooding. The National Hurricane Center warns that the storm could cause significant damage. As Isaias moves closer, the full impact will become clearer. NBC News will continue to provide live updates from the ground.