Severe Thunderstorm, Tornado Risk For Florida Panhandle

TALLAHASSEE, Florida – The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center issued a severe weather outlook for Southeast Alabama, Southwest Georgia, the Florida Panhandle, and Big Bend due to a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) of strong to severe thunderstorms on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

According to the National Weather Service Tallahassee, a squall line with embedded strong thunderstorms will move across southeast Alabama and southwest Georgia from Sunday morning into the afternoon, impacting the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend during the day.

The primary hazards are damaging wind gusts and a few tornadoes.

Gusty winds of 30-35 mph are anticipated ahead of the squall line, with potential for 40 mph or greater gusts. Secure loose outdoor items and exercise caution when driving high-profile vehicles. Small Craft Advisories are in effect for the northeastern Gulf.

The greatest chance for severe weather is across the Florida Panhandle. Cities at risk for severe weather include:

• Panama City
• Apalachicola
• DeFuniak Springs
• Tallahassee
• Perry
• Pensacola

The rain and cloud coverage will bring some much needed relief to the Florida Panhandle, but it will not be enough to end the ongoing moderate to severe drought.

High temperatures across the Florida Panhandle will be in the low to mid 70s on Sunday with lows in the mid to upper 50s overnight.

Following the passage of the cold front, conditions will become more tranquil with partly sunny skies and mild temperatures in the 70s persisting through much of the following week.