Unpredictable weather on the horizon

Historic City News is cautioning our readers that tornadoes are extremely unpredictable weather events. Once active, they are erratic as to velocity and path — making them extremely dangerous.

Most tornadoes in Florida are spawned by thunderstorms, frontal systems or hurricanes; all of which are common in our area.

If possible, residents are encouraged to have a NOAA Weather Alert Radio.

Necessary Actions:

If you receive a warning that a tornado is approaching, take the following steps:

-Take cover immediately.
-If you are outside, move immediately to a well-constructed building nearby.
– If you cannot get to a shelter, move to a low spot such as a ditch or a culvert and stay as low to the ground as possible.
-If you are inside a building, find the most central space on the lowest floor of the building to which you have access, preferably away from doors and windows.
-If possible, take cover under a desk, table, mattress, or other protective item.
-Stay as low to the floor as possible.

If you must go outdoors immediately after a severe storm, watch for fallen power lines and hazardous debris.

Know the difference between Watch and Warning.

Tornado Watch:
Issued when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms which could produce tornados. – Remain Attentive!

Tornado Warning:
Issued to warn a specific area that a tornado may be imminent. – Be Smart! Stay Safe!

Warnings:
It is the responsibility of the National Weather Service to issue tornado warnings for Florida. The fastest access to those warnings is through a NOAA Weather Radio.

Often tornadoes are quick to appear and so short-lived that the National Weather Service cannot issue a timely warning.

If the National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for our area, tune to NOAA Weather Radio or local television to follow the latest developments and decide at that time where you will go if a tornado is spotted in our vicinity.