Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued Across East Central Florida

ORLANDO, Florida – The National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for several East Central Florida counties.

The watch is in effect until 8:00 PM EDT.

The affected Florida counties include Brevard, Broward, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Polk, Seminole, and St. Lucie.

Residents in these areas are advised to be prepared for potential severe weather conditions, which could include damaging winds, hail, and lightning strikes.

The NWS has recommended that people stay indoors and avoid going outside during the storm if possible.

If people must go outside, they should avoid standing under trees, using electronic devices, and engaging in other activities that could increase the risk of injury.