Jacksonville, FL – Over 11 million Florida residents are under a tornado watch until 4 p.m. EDT Monday, as severe weather linked to Hurricane Debby threatens the region. The National Weather Service has issued the alert, covering key areas including Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, and Gainesville.
According to the National Weather Service, there is potential for a few tornadoes to develop in the affected regions. No hail is expected, but isolated wind gusts could reach up to 70 mph. The watch impacts 2,287 schools and 158 hospitals, emphasizing the need for widespread preparedness.
Residents are advised to stay alert and monitor local weather updates. Safety precautions include seeking shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. It is also recommended to avoid windows and to protect oneself from flying debris by covering with a mattress or heavy blankets.
Meteorologists stress the importance of having multiple ways to receive warnings, such as weather radios, smartphone alerts, and local news. The current weather system, driven by unstable atmospheric conditions from Hurricane Debby, could lead to rapidly changing weather patterns. Florida’s emergency management agencies are on standby, ready to respond to any incidents caused by the severe weather.
