EVERE WEATHER TO IMPACT PANHANDLE, BIG BEND THROUGH TUESDAY

RICK SCOTT Governor	BRYAN W. KOON Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, April 14, 2014	CONTACT: (850) 921-0217 aaron.gallaher@em.myflorida.com www.FloridaDisaster.org
SEVERE WEATHER TO IMPACT PANHANDLE, BIG BEND THROUGH TUESDAY ~Lightning Strikes, Strong Winds, Possible Tornadoes, and Isolated Flooding Anticipated~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) officials are urging residents and visitors across north Florida to stay alert as a storm system enters the region tonight. This storm system may produce lightning strikes, high wind gusts, and isolated tornadoes. A flash flood watch is in effect across the Panhandle from Escambia to Leon counties until 12 PM Tuesday. “A squall line of thunderstorms will move into the western Panhandle this evening, bringing with it a strong possibility of severe weather and rainfall totals that could exceed two inches in some areas,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “These storms will move into the Big Bend area during the morning hours, and although the storms are expected to be weaker, they still carry the risk of isolated severe weather.” If severe weather is forecast in 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. 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. If thunder roars, go indoors. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning and should seek shelter. If a flood is likely in your area, you should: Monitor the NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio or your local news sources for vital weather-related information. 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 other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain. For additional information about severe weather in Florida, and to Get A Plan, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org, Follow FDEM on social media on Twitter at @FLSERT, Instagram @FloridaSERT, Vine @FloridaSERT, Pinterest FloridaSERT and Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT andwww.Facebook.com/KidsGetAPlan.

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