FL Residents & Visitors Asked To Use Caution As Severe Weather Moves East

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Volusia County, FL - As severe weather moves towards the eastern part of the state, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) is asking residents and visitors to use caution on Sunday.

Scattered storms moved through the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend on Saturday afternoon. The strong to severe storms will head east into the Florida Peninsula during the day on Sunday, bringing the potential for severe weather to Volusia County. The FDEM says thunderstorms with wind gusts over 60 miles per hour, isolated tornadoes, and frequent lightning may be possible.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Melbourne, FL, indicates that scattered storms will begin developing after 1 PM on Sunday in Volusia County. Potential severe weather may be a threat to the area between the hours of 4 PM and 8 PM. The NWS says that small hail may also be possible in addition to gusty winds and lightning.

The FDEM urges those with outdoor activities planned to check the forecast before leaving and to watch for storms while outside. If storms and severe weather become imminent, you are urged to reschedule outdoor activities. If severe weather is in the forecast, keep a NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio on or keep an eye on local news outlets for up-to-date weather conditions.

Those who are in the forecasted area of severe weather are asked to make sure their disaster supply kit is ready and that they follow all instructions from local officials. For information on how to make a kit, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org. Residents and visitors are also urged to make sure they know what to do in the event of a severe thunderstorm or a tornado watch or warning. The FDEM has outlined the differences between watches and warnings below.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch vs. Warning

  • Severe Thunderstorm Watch – Weather conditions favor thunderstorms capable of producing large hail or damaging wind at this location. Be prepared.
  • Severe Thunderstorm Warning – Large hail or damaging wind is occurring or will shortly at this location. Seek shelter.

Tornado Watch vs. Warning

  • Tornado Watch – Weather conditions favor thunderstorm capable of producing tornadoes at this location. Be prepared.
  • Tornado Warning – A tornado is occurring or will shortly at this location. Seek shelter immediately in an interior room, away from windows.

If you hear thunder, make sure to go indoors immediately because you are close enough to be struck by lightning. The FDEM encourages residents to sign up for emergency alerts at www.FloridaDisaster.org/AlertFlorida. Other updates can be found on their Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Copyright Southern Stone Communications 2018.

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