Ocala, FL – A line of severe thunderstorms swept through northern Florida early Sunday morning, prompting warnings across multiple counties.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Jacksonville issued warnings for southeastern Alachua, Marion, and Putnam counties until 7:45 a.m. Sunday. Storms were reported near Rochelle, Citra, and Rainbow Lakes Estates, moving east at 65 mph.
According to the NWS, the storms pose a hazard of 70 mph wind gusts and quarter-sized hail. These conditions are likely to cause significant damage to vehicles, roofs, mobile homes, and trees. Flash flooding is also a risk as torrential rainfall accompanies the system.
Locations at risk include Ocala, Interlachen, Fort McCoy, Hawthorne, and Cross Creek. Earlier warnings also highlighted northern Flagler and St. Johns counties, including areas such as Palm Coast, St. Augustine Beach, and Marineland.
Residents are advised to seek shelter in interior rooms on the lowest floor of sturdy buildings. Avoid driving through flooded roadways and monitor local alerts for updates.
The storm threat underscores Florida’s winter weather volatility, where warm fronts often generate severe systems. Stay prepared and exercise caution during morning commutes.
