Tornado Watches Issued in Central Florida: What You Need to Know

Central Florida residents are urged to be prepared for severe weather on Thursday, October 13, 2023. The National Weather Service has issued tornado watches for much of the region, including the following counties:

• Flagler
• Lake
• Orange
• Osceola
• Polk
• Seminole
• Sumter
• Volusia

A tornado watch means that tornadoes are possible in the area, but not imminent. Residents should stay informed of the latest weather conditions and be prepared to take action if a tornado warning is issued.

What to do during a tornado watch:

• Stay tuned to local news and weather stations for the latest updates.
• Have a plan in place for where to go if a tornado warning is issued. A basement or interior room is the best place to be during a tornado.
• Move any loose objects outside that could be picked up by the wind and become projectiles.
• If you see a tornado, take shelter immediately.

What to do during a tornado warning:

• Take shelter in a basement or interior room without windows.
• Lie down on the floor and cover your head and neck with pillows or blankets.
• If you are in a car, pull over to the side of the road and lie down in a ditch or under a bridge.

If you experience a tornado, please report it to the National Weather Service by calling 911.

Additional tips for staying safe during severe weather:

• Have a family emergency plan in place. This should include a plan for how to communicate with each other if you are separated, as well as a plan for what to do if you need to evacuate your home.
• Keep a battery-powered radio and flashlight on hand.
• Make sure you have a working smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector.
• Trim trees and shrubs around your home to reduce the risk of wind damage.

Severe weather can strike at any time, so it is important to be prepared. By following the tips above, you can help keep yourself and your family safe.
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