As of Tuesday night, a tornado watch has been put into effect until 6 a.m. Wednesday for Lake, Marion, Sumter, and Polk counties. This alert has been issued by the National Weather Service.
This watch indicates that the atmospheric conditions are conducive to the formation of tornadoes. Residents within these counties are advised to stay alert and remain prepared for swift changes in the weather.
Meanwhile, the western parts of Marion and Sumter counties are currently under a hurricane warning. This warning signifies the impending arrival of hurricane conditions, which include strong winds and heavy rainfall. It is crucial to take immediate measures to secure properties and ensure the safety of individuals.
A tornado watch is in effect now through 6AM Wednesday morning for our far western counties including Sumter, Lake and Marion counties. Please have a way to get weather alerts because tornadoes could occur in the overnight hours.#wesh #weather #tornado #threat #tornado #watch pic.twitter.com/1gtkAaQ3P3
— Cam Tran WESH (@CamTranTV) August 30, 2023
Tropical storm warnings are also in place, encompassing the eastern and central areas of Marion, Seminole, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Flagler, Volusia, and Brevard counties. These warnings indicate a high likelihood of experiencing tropical storm conditions, which involve intense rainfall and strong winds.
With the approach of Hurricane Idalia toward the west-central coast of Florida, the potential for tornado formation rises on Tuesday. This risk expands further northward into the Big Bend region by Tuesday night. Tornadoes that form in connection with hurricanes can emerge rapidly and pose substantial threats. Individuals residing in these regions should be prepared to seek immediate shelter and carefully monitor updates from the weather authorities.