Landspout Possible Near Archer: Seek Shelter Indoors Now

A Special Weather Statement has been issued for portions of North Central Florida, including Union, Bradford, Gilchrist, Alachua, Marion, and Columbia counties. The National Weather Service in Jacksonville has indicated a strong thunderstorm capable of producing a landspout was tracked near Archer, approximately 7 miles north of Williston, at 5:37 PM EDT. This storm is moving north at 30 mph.

Residents in Gainesville, Rainbow Lakes Estates, Worthington Spring, Alachua, High Springs, Archer, Fort White, Worthington Springs, University Of Florida, and New River should be aware of potential landspouts and wind gusts reaching 45 to 55 mph. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible, and gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.

If you are outdoors in the affected areas, seek shelter inside a building immediately. Torrential rainfall is also expected, which may lead to localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways. This Special Weather Statement is effective until 6:15 PM EDT today, October 9, 2026. A Tornado Watch remains in effect for northern Florida until 9:00 PM EDT.