A tornado watch is in effect until 3 p.m. for much of the Tampa Bay area.
TAMPA, Fla. — With storms expected to roll through the Tampa Bay area on Thursday, you may want to put your phone on silent and be aware of the weather.
The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted part of the region – primarily from St. Petersburg to Tampa and north – for a slight risk of severe weather. On a scale of one to five, consider the threat to be a two at this time, with damaging winds, hail and perhaps a waterspout or tornado possible.
Earlier this morning, a tornado watch was issued for Hernando, Hillsborough, Polk, Pinellas, Pasco and Citrus counties. It’s in effect until 3 p.m.
In addition to the risk of tornadoes, damaging winds and small hail are possible.
LIVE UPDATES: Tornado Watch Issued for Tampa Bay Area Counties
What is a tornado watch, tornado warning:
Watching the tornado: Be ready ! A watch means conditions are ripe for a tornado to form. A tornado watch means it is possible to see one in and near the area under the watch. This is a good time to review and discuss your emergency plans and check supplies and your safe.
People who are in an area where a tornado watch has been issued should be prepared to act quickly if a tornado warning is issued or if you suspect a tornado is approaching.
Tornado Warning: Act now! A tornado warning means that a person has been indicated by weather radar or sighted. People should move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. You should avoid windows.
Tornado warnings are issued by the local area forecast office.
