TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Storms are expected across Big Bend in about 12 hours, and emergency responders are actively monitoring the incoming weather and getting ready to act in case of an emergency.
Kevin Peters, Leon County's emergency management director, said his team is not concerned because they're prepared.
They are advising you take the time to get ready, too.
"Safety is of utmost importance for emergency management," Peters said. "We want to make sure the citizens of Leon County, as well as the visitors, have the best experience in town."
Peters wants to ensure the community that his team is ready to face any emergency weather situation that may happen.
"The National Weather Service has our area under a slight risk of severe weather, so we do need to be on watch for strong gusty winds," said Peters. "We could see gusts up to 58 mph. We can't rule out the possibility of a tornado. Also, there's a chance for hail."
Staying informed on the severity of the storm is a must when it comes to making preparations. Peters says making a plan right now is something everyone should do.
"People in our area need to be on alert and know where they are going to go as the storm approaches," Peters said.
Staying prepared ahead of severe weather is something the local chapter of the American Red Cross knows well.
Sharon Tyler, the Executive Director for local chapter American Red Cross, is busy making sure her volunteers are ready for any emergency calls that might come in.
"They've updated their availability in our system so we know who can be sent, who can stay local and help if we need help locally," Tyler said. "So we are scanning the team to see who is available to do what."
Lucien Conti has lived in Tallahassee for about two years, and says he isn't very concerned about the weather expected on Thursday.
"I think we've seen our fair share of bad experiences," Conti said, "and we always just seem to get through it."
In case of an emergency, responders say it is important to call 911 before reaching out to emergency management or the Red Cross.
