Downed powerlines block US 98, cause power outages in Destin

If you are trying to travel west on Emerald Coast Parkway (U.S. 98) near Destin, be patient. 

“Around 4:30 a.m. a power line fell in the roadway on Emerald Coast Parkway between Triumph Road and Matthew Boulevard in Destin,” the Okaloosa County Sherrif’s Office said in a Facebook post. 

“A power outage occurred at the same time throughout Destin,” the OCSO posted. 

Florida Power and Light responded but could not provide a time of completion. 

Currently, deputies have all westbound lanes of Emerald Coast Parkway blocked as well as two eastbound lanes. 

Traffic is being diverted to Commons Drive. 

“Please be patient as traffic increases,” OCSO said.

Due to the downed lines, power is still out at nearby Destin High School.

The school was operating on a two-hour delay, with a 10 a.m. start. However, the school sent an email at 8:30 a.m. canceling school for students for April 28 because of the outage.