Nasty weather forecast
If the forecast holds today, Hernando County could be in for some nasty weather.
Torrential rain, tornados and flooding are all in the mix as Tropical Storm Andrea moving north-northeast over the Gulf of Mexico will churn up the waters and hit the coast.
“Don’t plan on doing anything outside,” said Rodney Wynn, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
Wynn said Hernando County could see 3-5 inches of rain by Thursday afternoon, with the potential of 8-10 inches “depending on where the rain bands are set up and how they move through the area.”
A flood watch is in effect until Thursday evening. There is also a slight chance of tornados all day today.
Wynn said conditions should improve Friday.
The National Weather Service said increasing winds and high seas could create minor flooding along low-lying coastal areas during high tides, which may run 1-3 feet above normal. Wind gusts may reach 30-50 mph.
Emergency Management Director Cecilia Patella said residents in flood-prone areas “need to be extra alert.”
Because of expected high winds, residents should secure their outdoor objects or bring them inside, she said.
At press time, Patella said no shelters had been ordered open. Residents should go over tornado evacuation and safety plans, she added.
It was one year ago this month that Tropical Storm Debby swept through the area, causing severe flooding and torrents of rain.
Hurricane season began June 1 and continues through Nov. 30. Wynn said this storm is a tropical hybrid system and not part of the typical summer pattern.
Florida Division of Emergency Management officials urge Floridians to stay alert.
“The forecast and the strength of this system as it approaches landfall is still uncertain, and impacts from the storm may be felt statewide” said FDEM Director Bryan Koon.
(352) 544-5290
