Hernando County’s emergency operations center is warning of possible high winds and flooding as severe storms move through the area. An isolated tornado is also possible.

HERNANDO COUNTY – A flood watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for Hernando County through 10 p.m.

Abundant moisture streaming over the area on the east side of a complex storm system is expected to produce heavy rain today (Dec. 14) and early tonight. Widespread rainfall amounts of 2 inches to 4 inches with locally higher amounts will be possible. Showers and thunderstorms will move across the Florida peninsula throughout the day today. Isolated severe storms will be possible today with the threat of damaging wind gusts. An isolated tornado is also possible.

According to Hernando County’s emergency operations center, primary impacts from the storms are expected to be:

• Locally heavy rainfall, with possible flooding of low-lying areas
• Strong wind gusts up to 60 mph
• Occasional lightning strikes
• Isolated tornadoes or waterspouts
• Small Craft Advisory conditions over gulf waters
• Strong and frequent rip currents developing this afternoon persisting through Saturday (Dec. 15).

The heavy rainfall will have the potential to cause flooding of low-lying and poor drainage areas. Flooding will also affect roadways, rivers, creeks, and smaller streams.

• Remember to not drive across flooded roadways. Turn around. Don’t drown.
• Residents living in flood prone areas as well as along rivers and faster flowing streams should keep alert to any rapid rises in water levels and be ready to move to higher ground if flooding is observed.
• Residents are urged to actively monitor local news media or the National Weather Service at weather.gov.
• Test weather radio and change batteries if needed.
• If a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter in an interior, windowless room.
• Mariners should heed small craft advisories.
• Register to receive automated weather alerts at alerthernando.org.
• Report damages promptly to the Emergency Operations Center at (352) 754-4083.

Map courtesy of the National Weather Service.

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