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Gov. Scott: Floridians Should Pay Attention to Potential Severe Weather

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Governor Rick Scott today made the following statement regarding the National Hurricane Center’s monitoring of a weather system that could potentially develop into a tropical or sub-tropical depression. Governor Scott was briefed this afternoon by FDEM while traveling back to Florida. The Governor also directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) to be in constant communication with counties regarding the weather system. FDEM has also been in contact with local emergency management professionals in Palm Beach County regarding reports of a small tornado touching down in The Acreage, FL.

Governor Scott said, “In Florida, we know how to prepare for storms, and even though hurricane season hasn’t begun, we should never let our guard down. It’s encouraging to know that the National Hurricane Center doesn’t expect this system to become a tropical storm, but we should never underestimate the potential impact of severe weather. I urge every Floridian to take this opportunity to revisit their emergency plans. Also, Floridians should stay tuned to local news reports as this weather system moves north. As with any storm, our main concern is safety, and Floridians across the state should take the proper steps to keep themselves and each other safe.”

For additional updates, follow the Florida State Emergency Response Team on Facebook at Facebook.com/FloridaSERT and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLSERT.

Statement from Governor Scott on Expected Severe Weather in Florida Panhandle

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Governor Rick Scott today released the following statement regarding severe weather expected to impact the Florida Panhandle this week.
Governor Scott said, “With severe weather including heavy rain and flooding expected across the Florida Panhandle this week, families in Northwest Florida should remain alert to local news and weather updates and make sure they have a plan. I have been monitoring the storm system in the Gulf of Mexico and will continue to receive briefings on possible impacts to our state. Tonight, I will be reaching out to emergency management officials in counties across Northwest Florida to ensure they have everything they need in anticipation of this severe weather system. This is a reminder to all Floridians of the dangerous weather our state faces during hurricane season and the importance of getting a plan to keep your family safe. Visit FloridaDisaster.org today to get a plan and be prepared.”

Florida residents advised to remain alert as second front brings potential for severe weather

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State and local emergency management officials are recommending residents and visitors remain aware, as conditions favorable for severe weather continue throughout North Florida and into Central Florida today and tonight. This weather system will have the potential to produce large hail, damaging wind gusts and tornadoes. Have a NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio in your home of office to receive warnings from the National Weather and follow all instructions from local officials.
Governor Scott said, “It is incredibly important that Floridians and visitors in North and Central Florida pay close attention to local news throughout the day and ensure they are fully prepared ahead of any potentially damaging weather, such as tornadoes or flash floods. While we are glad that the weather from earlier this week did not cause significant damage, we must take every case of potentially severe weather seriously and take action to keep our families and communities safe. The Florida Division of Emergency Management and their local partners are continuing to work together to monitor the weather and provide updates to families across North and Central Florida.”
State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said, “Much of North Florida and parts of Central Florida have been placed at high risk of severe weather throughout the day and overnight. Those in the affected areas should monitor this storm system and have a plan of action if warnings are issued.”
Tornado watches may be issued throughout the day. Residents and visitors to the state should monitor local media outlets and ensure that their NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio alert settings are turned on. A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been reported as sighted, or has appeared on radar in the area.
If severe weather threatens your area, be sure to follow these important safety tips:

  • Ensure your NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is on and programmed for your area or stay tuned to a trusted local media outlet for the most current weather situation.
  • Ensure your disaster supply kit is prepared and heed all instructions from local officials.
  • Know what you would do in the event of a severe thunderstorm or tornado watch or warning.
  • If a tornado warning is issued for your area seek shelter immediately in an interior room, away from windows.
  • If thunder roars, go indoors. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning and should seek shelter immediately.
  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
  • Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.
  • NEVER drive through flooded roadways as road beds may be washed out under flood waters, and just one foot of fast-moving flood water can move most cars off the road.

For more information about the Florida Division of Emergency Management, visit www.Floridadisaster.org or follow the Division on Twitter at @FLSERT and Facebook at Facebook.com/FloridaDivisionofEmergencyManagement.