ORLANDO, Florida – Strong to locally severe thunderstorms capable of producing isolated tornadoes, damaging wind gusts, large hail, and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning will be possible across Florida on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, according to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center.
What Damage Can Large Hailstones Do?
Storms that produce hailstones the size of quarters or larger can result in dents on cars, damage to roofs, break windows, and can be deadly to animals and people.
Large hailstones can fall at speeds faster than 100 mph.
Severe Weather Timing
TALLAHASSEE: Late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Main concerns will be the potential for damaging straight-line winds in any severe storms along a squall line that is forecast to move through the area. A few tornadoes are also possible, especially west of the Apalachicola/Flint Rivers.
JACKSONVILLE: The greatest chance for severe weather is from 8 AM through 4 PM Wednesday across North Florida.
ORLANDO: The greatest potential for severe storms over east Central Florida will be between 11 AM and 5 PM Wednesday. The main hazards will be damaging wind gusts of over 60 mph, coin-sized hail, a brief tornado, heavy rainfall leading to ponding on roadways, and frequent lightning.
TAMPA: Damaging winds, isolated tornadoes, and small hail will be the main threats from 8 AM through 6 PM Wednesday over west Central Florida.
Tornado Watch versus Tornado Warning
What is the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning issued by the National Weather Service?
Tornado Watch
A Tornado Watch means that tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area.
People within the tornado watch areas should review and discuss their emergency plans, check supplies, and their safe room.
People within the tornado watch areas should be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or they suspect a tornado is approaching.
Watches are issued by the Storm Prediction Center for counties where tornadoes may occur. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.
Tornado Warning
A Tornado Warning means that a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar and there is imminent danger to life and property.
People within the tornado warning areas should move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows.
If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
