Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Southern Liberty; Tornadoes Possible

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Southern Liberty, including Central City and the Apalachicola National Forest, by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Tallahassee, FL. This warning is effective immediately as of 11:05 AM EDT on October 9 and expires at 7:15 PM EDT today.

Residents should prepare for hazardous winds of 10-20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph, with potential for winds up to 57 mph. Efforts to protect property should be underway now. Complete all preparations before winds become hazardous.

A Flood Watch is in effect, with an additional 4-8 inches of rain, and locally higher amounts, expected. Major rainfall flooding is possible, which may lead to evacuations and rescues. Heed any flood watches and warnings; failure to act could result in serious injury or loss of life. Rivers and small streams may overflow their banks, and floodwaters could enter many structures. Driving conditions will become dangerous.

The NWS indicates a very favorable situation for numerous tornadoes, some potentially intense with larger damage paths. Those in manufactured homes or on boats should relocate to safe shelter immediately. Listen for tornado watches and warnings and be ready to shelter quickly if a warning is issued. Tornadoes could cause extensive damage, power loss, and communication failures.

No storm surge inundation is forecast, but rough surf, coastal erosion, and life-threatening rip currents are possible. Follow instructions from local officials and monitor forecasts.

For local weather conditions and forecasts, visit weather.gov/tallahassee. Information from the Florida Division of Emergency Management is available at floridadisaster.org.