TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — First to Know Weather is analyzing the latest round of unsettled weather, set to arrive late Wednesday and early Thursday, that will cause a higher chance for adverse storm conditions in the local area.
A greater chance for numerous or widespread severe storms is focused on the central Gulf Coast region Wednesday afternoon and evening. A well organized low-pressure system will move northeast as it triggers areas of downpours and severe storms.
WEDNESDAY:
Before it comes close to the Florida/Georgia line region, steadier southerly winds will be noticed Wednesday afternoon with an increase in cloud cover and moisture. High-impact rain or storms is not expected to occur locally in the daylight hours Wednesday.
The complex of severe storms in the central Gulf Coast will migrate east late at night and through early Thursday morning.
THURSDAY:
TIMING
Timing looks to be mostly early morning hours of Thursday around a 3-5 AM arrival for our tri-state counties. The system pushes east as storms move along the line in a northeast motion.
Storm activity arrives in central Big Bend counties by early morning travel times which could lead to some impacts for morning travel.
By late-morning to early afternoon hours, the last of the storms moves out of our eastern most areas including the Suwannee Valley.
HAZARDS
During the stint of this storm impacts could include localized or flash flooding, widespread damaging winds and risk of an isolated tornado.
A Flood Watch is in effect through Thursday afternoon to account for flooding risks.
Heavy rain is forecast to affect most tri-state counties, south-central Georgia and western and central Big Bend counties.
This brings threat of flash and localized flooding.
Up to 4" is possible closer to the tri-state area.
Totals near 2-3" are possible for south-central Georgia and central Big Big neighborhoods.
Suwannee Valley neighborhoods and southeast Georgia can expect less rain (<2") and are not under a Flood Watch at this time.
Generally windy trends will be felt before and after the storm system moves through, but higher gusts are possible within thunderstorms.
Wind gusts could reach 60 MPH or higher from storm activity.
A risk for tornadoes is also present early Thursday morning.
This risk area includes the tri-state region, parts of South-Central Georgia and western Big Bend counties.
IMPACTS:
-Heavy rain could lead to localized or flash flooding. Avoid driving or walking through any flood waters.
-High wind gusts and damaging wind could mean isolated power outages, downed limbs and power lines, and the potential for damage to property. Please make sure all loose items are secured before heading to bed Wednesday night to save debris from hitting your or your neighbor's home.
-Tornado potential also exists during this time which would mean impacts similar to those of high wind. Please know where to go in case a warning is issued for you. An interior room of the house (with no walls leading outside) and a room with no windows in the lowest room of the home is the safest spot during a tornado. Cars and mobile homes are not safe shelters during tornadoes.
Have multiple ways to get notifications and alerts. We will keep you up-to-date with the active forecast, and you will be the First to Know of any changes or impacts expected in your area.