Miami, Fla. – Strong storms are expected to sweep across South and Central Florida Monday afternoon into the evening, with a Severe Thunderstorm Watch now in effect for 12 counties, including Miami-Dade and Orange, until 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch—issued at 2:15 p.m. EDT—covers much of the I-95 corridor and inland areas, including Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale. The primary threats include damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, hail, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours capable of causing localized flooding.
Counties under the watch include Brevard, Broward, Indian River, Martin, Miami-Dade, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Seminole, St. Lucie, and Volusia. Storms could disrupt evening commutes and cause power outages, especially in areas with saturated ground or older infrastructure.
Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways and remain cautious of fallen trees or debris. Residents should secure outdoor items and charge phones in case of outages. Boaters along the Atlantic coast should seek safe harbor as fast-moving cells could bring hazardous conditions on open water.
The storm threat will continue through the evening hours. Additional warnings may be issued as storms intensify across the region.
