ORLANDO, Fla. – Strong to severe storms are expected to move into the area Sunday evening, with the highest risk stretching from about 6 p.m. into the early overnight hours, thanks to a strong cold front pushing through.
The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch that includes Marion and Flagler counties. It will be active until 8 p.m.
Primary threats include... A couple tornadoes possible Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
SUMMARY...A broken line of thunderstorms will continue to move quickly east-northeastward across parts of northern Florida and southern Georgia this afternoon and evening. Scattered damaging winds with peak gusts up to 60-70 mph should be the main threat, but a couple of brief line-embedded tornadoes also appear possible. The tornado watch area is approximately along and 55 statute miles east and west of a line from 60 miles north of Waycross GA to 30 miles south of Gainesville FL. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... REMEMBER...A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
National Weather Service
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Most of Central Florida is under a “marginal” risk for severe weather, with a “slight” risk category for parts of Marion and Flagler counties in the north.
The far southern parts of the area are expected to be less at risk. The main window for these storms is expected between this evening and close to midnight, so it’s a good idea to stay weather-aware if you have evening plans.
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Predicted hazards: Damaging winds, heavy rain, lightning, possible tornadoes
The most significant threats with this system include damaging wind gusts with some locations potentially seeing up to 45 mph.
A wind advisory will be in effect from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. for Marion and Flagler counties, but gusty conditions are forecast throughout the region.
Lightning and periods of heavy rain are possible as these storms roll through. While the chances for hail and flooding are on the lower side, an isolated tornado or two still cannot be completely ruled out in tonight’s setup.
Some drought relief from beneficial rain
A beneficial soaking is forecast with the storms, bringing in about a quarter to a half inch of rain. Some areas, especially farther north, could see totals near one inch.
While it’s not enough to end the drought, any precipitation will help—especially since drought monitor graphics show Marion and Flagler counties in the “extreme” drought category and much of Central Florida in the “moderate to severe” range.
Looking ahead, can expect a slight cool-down for Presidents Day Monday with a high of 75 degrees and mostly cloudy skies. Tuesday will be warmer, around 79 degrees, and temperatures should return to the low 80s by midweek.
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