A powerful and fast-moving weather system is sweeping through the southeastern and eastern U.S., prompting urgent weather alerts across multiple states. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning and a tornado watch, now extending into northern Florida and southern Georgia, putting Jacksonville and Savannah on high alert.
Current Threat Zones
- Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Active for regions across western New York, including Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, and Wyoming counties.
- Tornado Watch: In effect for a wide swath of the eastern U.S.—from New Jersey and Pennsylvania to Virginia, North Carolina, and now reaching northeastern Florida and coastal Georgia, including Jacksonville, FL, and Savannah, GA.
Meteorologists warn that the system is capable of producing 70+ MPH winds, torrential rain, frequent lightning, and isolated tornadoes, especially as it tracks southward and gains energy from Gulf moisture.
“Even if a tornado doesn’t form, straight-line winds and flash flooding can be just as dangerous,” the NWS cautioned. “Remain alert. Conditions can change quickly.”
Lightning Safety: What You Need to Know
Each year, lightning strikes the U.S. roughly 25 million times, and about 20 people die annually from related injuries. With thunderstorms expected across Jacksonville, Savannah, and neighboring cities tonight, staying safe is a priority.
Before & During the Storm:
- Have a plan and stay near solid shelter.
- If you hear thunder—even in the distance—head indoors immediately.
- Avoid open fields, water, and elevated terrain like bridges or rooftops.
Once Indoors:
- Don’t use corded phones, wired electronics, or plumbing (sinks, tubs).
- Stay away from windows and doors—lightning can travel through wiring and pipes.
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder or lightning flash before going outside again.
If You’re Caught Outside – Act Fast
If you’re at the beach in Jacksonville, walking your dog in Savannah, or out on a hiking trail with no immediate shelter:
- Avoid hilltops and isolated trees.
- Find a low area such as a ditch or ravine and crouch low with minimal contact to the ground.
- Stay away from metal fences, golf clubs, or bicycles.
- If in a group, spread out to reduce the chance of multiple injuries from a single strike.
Storm Driving Safety – Roads Will Be Hazardous
Driving conditions are expected to worsen along major highways like I-95, I-10, and U.S. Route 17, with high winds, flash flooding, and poor visibility.
Road Safety Tips:
- Never drive through flooded roads—turn around, don’t drown.
- Increase following distance; wet roads need more braking time.
- Avoid cruise control and reduce speed gradually to avoid hydroplaning.
- If visibility drops, pull over to a safe location with hazards on.
- Be cautious of downed trees, power lines, or debris that may block roads.
Stay Alert. Stay Safe.
From western New York down to Jacksonville and Savannah, this volatile storm system is expected to continue into the evening, bringing rapidly changing weather conditions.
Stay informed:
- Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone.
- Follow local TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio.
- Know your nearest emergency shelter or safe room.
Being prepared, staying aware, and acting fast could make all the difference. This is a dynamic and dangerous storm—don’t wait to take action.
