National Weather Service Issues Forecast Tonight of Strong Thunderstorms, Damaging Winds, and Possible Tornadoes

Bay County Emergency Services is closely monitoring a potentially dangerous severe weather event expected to impact our area overnight (Saturday and into Sunday). The National Weather Service has issued a forecast warning of strong thunderstorms, damaging winds, and the threat of large tornadoes.

Current Forecast Timing

- Earliest arrival to Bay County: 9 p.m.

- Most likely timeframe: Midnight to 4 a.m.

- Storms exiting the area: By 7 a.m.

As this storm is expected to move through overnight, it is crucial to have a reliable way to receive alerts while you are sleeping. We recommend enabling emergency alerts on your phone and ensuring you have a weather radio with an alarm function.

To stay informed, please take the following actions:

- Enable emergency alerts on your phone.

- Sign up for AlertBay (www.alertbay.org) to receive critical updates and warnings.

- Monitor trusted weather sources such as US National Weather Service Tallahassee Florida and local meteorologists with WMBB News 13 and WJHG-TV.

- If a tornado warning is issued, take action immediately—do NOT wait to see the tornado.

A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornado development, so stay alert and be ready to take action.
A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted or is indicated by radar. If this happens, seek shelter immediately.

 For tornado safety, please follow these tips:

- Identify a safe place in your home, preferably an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.

- If you are in a mobile home, seek a sturdier shelter immediately.

- Have a weather radio, flashlights, and extra batteries on hand.

- Know your evacuation plan.

Stay safe and follow updates from local meteorologists as this storm approaches.