Tallahassee, FL – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a tornado watch for northern Florida due to the increasing threat from Hurricane Helene. The watch, effective until 10:00 p.m. EDT, covers areas stretching from 40 miles west of Tallahassee to 60 miles northeast of Gainesville.
Rainbands from Hurricane Helene are expected to sweep through the region throughout Thursday, with conditions becoming more favorable for tornadoes as wind fields strengthen. The NWS reports that low-level winds will increase the likelihood of tornadoes forming, posing a significant risk to residents in northern Florida.
According to the NWS, a tornado watch means conditions are ripe for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. Residents are urged to stay alert for further updates and possible tornado warnings. Any tornadoes that form could be strong, and the weather service recommends taking shelter if warnings are issued.
The NWS advises those in the watch area to monitor local weather reports, as storms can develop quickly. Prepare for extreme turbulence, hail, and wind gusts reaching up to 60 knots in some locations. Stay tuned to local authorities for updates throughout the day.
