5/25/2018

Florida Residents And Visitors Urged To Use Caution This Weekend As Watches Issued For Sub-Tropical Storm Alberto

Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) officials urge residents and visitors to use caution this weekend as potential severe weather is expected statewide due to Sub-Tropical Storm Alberto. Regardless of track or intensity, this system will result in a multi-day widespread rainfall event that may impact a large portion of Florida.

Those with outdoor activities planned are advised to check the weather forecast before leaving for extended periods outdoors and watch for signs of approaching storms while outside. Postpone outdoor activities if storms are imminent. If severe weather is forecast in your area, be sure to follow these additional important safety tips:

• Ensure your NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is on and programmed for your area or stay tuned to a trusted local media outlet for the most current weather situation.
• Ensure your disaster supply kit is prepared and heed all instructions from local officials. For tips to help you build a kit, please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org
• Know what you would do in the event a tropical storm or storm surge watch or warning is issued.  

Tropical Storm Watch v. Warning

Tropical Storm Watch – Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified area within the next 48 hours. Start completing storm preparations.

Tropical Storm Warning – Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the specified area within the next 36 hours. Preparations should be rushed to completion.

Storm Surge Watch v. Warning

Storm Surge Watch – Life threatening storm surge is possible within 48 hours. Promptly follow any instructions from local officials.

Storm Surge Warning – Life threatening storm surge is likely within 36 hours. Promptly follow any instructions from local officials.

• ​​​​Turn around, don’t drown. Do not try to drive through flood roadways.
• Always swim within sight of a lifeguard and follow beach hazard flags. Double red flags mean the beach is closed.
• If thunder roars, go indoors. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning and should seek shelter.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management encourages all residents to sign up to receive emergency alerts and other public safety notifications. To find your local notification system, please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org/AlertFlorida

For additional updates, follow us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT and on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/FLSERT.