Scattered showers and storms are expected in the Florida panhandle throughout Thursday afternoon, with the most severe storms predicted to hit the area after sundown, according to the National Weather Service.
Main threats from this storm system include damaging winds, lightning strikes, hail, and isolated tornadoes. Up to an inch of rainfall is possible in northwest Florida, but certain areas may receive more.
Current weather statuses for local counties are:
Okaloosa County:
- High risk of rip currents.
Santa Rosa County:
- High risk of rip currents.
Walton County
- Tornado watch until 3 a.m.
- High risk of rip currents.
A few important safety tips to remember during severe weather are:
- Never drive through flooded roadways. Roads could be washed out under flood waters. Only one foot of fast-moving flood water can move a car off the road.
- If thunder roars, go indoors. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.
- Know what you would do in the event of a severe thunderstorm or tornado watch or warning. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, seek shelter immediately in an interior room, away from windows.
- Ensure your NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is on and programmed for your area or stay tuned to a trusted local media outlet for the most current weather situation. Ensure your disaster supply kit is prepared and heed all instructions from local officials.
To learn more about severe weather in Florida, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org, and follow FDEM on Twitter at @FLSERT and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT and www.Facebook.com/kidsgetaplan.
