A tornado warning has been issued for Bay County as a powerful storm moves rapidly northeast. The National Weather Service (NWS) detected strong rotation in the storm system around 5:26 a.m. CST, prompting immediate warnings for residents. The warning is in effect until 6:00 a.m. CST, but forecasters caution that dangerous conditions could persist even after that time.
What’s Happening Right Now?
Tornadoes, strong winds, and a lot of rain are all part of this storm. A tornado might emerge at any time since meteorologists have detected spinning within the storm and winds are already gusting between 60 and 70 mph.
If a tornado touches down, it could cause serious damage to homes, downed trees, power outages, and flying debris, making it extremely dangerous to be outdoors. This is not a drill—Bay County residents need to take cover immediately.
What You Need to Do Right Now
- Get to a Safe Place – The best shelter is a small, windowless room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Basements, bathrooms, or closets are ideal.
- Avoid Mobile Homes and Vehicles – These structures provide little protection from tornadoes. If you are in one, move to a safer location as soon as possible.
- Stay Off the Roads – Tornadoes can form quickly, making travel extremely dangerous. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car.
- Stay Updated – Keep an eye on the latest alerts from NOAA Weather Radio, local news, or emergency notifications on your phone.
Be Ready for Power Outages
With winds this strong, power outages are highly likely. Get your flashlights and additional batteries ready, charge your phone, and ensure you have non-perishable food and water on hand for emergencies.
Tornadoes in Bay County: A Serious Threat
There has been a lot of severe weather in Bay County, including a destructive tornado that left significant damage in December 1967. Don’t ignore this warning since tornadoes can strike quickly and cause havoc.
Stay Safe and Stay Inside
The risk does not go away just because the tornado warning is in effect until six in the morning. Authorities advise everyone to stay inside, keep an eye out for updates, and heed any cautions. Additional alerts might be sent out if circumstances alter.