Tornado Watch Issued For Florida Peninsula

ORLANDO, Florida – The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch in effect until 2:00 PM EDT for Alachua, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Levy, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, Union, and Volusia counties.

This tornado watch means that the conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes in and close to the watch area.

WHAT TO DO IF A TORNADO APPROACHES

If you receive no warning, your best clue that a tornado is approaching is the tell-tale roaring or rumbling sound they make.

If you hear this, or a National Weather Service warning for your area, take cover quickly. Find a small, interior room on the lowest floor of a strong building and stay away from doors and windows.

Don’t try to outrun a tornado in a car.

If you see a tornado while in a car, take cover in a nearby strong building or get into a ditch on the side of the road.

Remember, tornadoes are deadly and can strike suddenly. They can destroy structures in minutes or seconds. Plan ahead now to be prepared, and don’t leave home without a weather radio.