Blountstown, Florida – A fast-moving thunderstorm packing wind gusts up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail is set to sweep across northern Gulf, southern Calhoun, and southwestern Liberty counties through 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, prompting immediate safety concerns for drivers and residents in Florida’s Panhandle.
According to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, radar detected the storm northwest of Stonemill Creek just after 2 p.m. EDT, heading southeast at 15 mph. Strong winds could snap tree limbs and send unsecured items airborne, while minor hail damage to gardens or vegetation is possible across affected communities.
Cities most at risk include Blountstown, Wewahitchka, Bristol, and Honeyville, along with key roadways near Clarksville, Chipola Cutoff, Scotts Ferry, and Overstreet. Residents should move indoors and secure loose outdoor belongings until the storm passes. Local emergency managers urge drivers to use caution, especially on rural roads where fallen limbs may create hazards.
This marks another round of active July weather for the region, mirroring similar storms earlier in the month. Residents should monitor weather alerts, charge mobile devices, and stay off open water or exposed areas.
More storms are possible as summer heat fuels atmospheric instability. Updates and advisories will be issued as needed through the evening.
