TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Severe weather is poised to impact Tallahassee and surrounding areas as warnings and alerts flood residents' devices. On March 15 and 16, forecasters from the National Weather Service (NWS) are predicting damaging winds, significant thunderstorms, and potential tornadoes as part of a larger storm system sweeping across the Southeast.
The NWS has issued multiple alerts, including tornado watches across the Big Bend region and southern Georgia. Residents should remain vigilant as tornadic activities are expected to develop through the night. According to forecasters, conditions are favorable for the development of severe weather, which could lead to destructive tornadoes.
"If you are in a mobile home, it is NOT safe, and you MUST seek alternative shelter," advised the NWS. This dire message emphasizes the urgency for residents living in mobile homes to stay with friends or family who reside in sturdier buildings. Early warnings from the NWS suggest high-end severe weather is likely, prompting officials to encourage everyone to take immediate precautions.
The storm system has already wreaked havoc across several states, with at least 30 fatalities reported due to the weather chaos spanning from the Midwest down to the Gulf Coast. Deaths occurred as far away as Kansas, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Texas, where tornadoes and high winds persisted throughout Saturday, March 15. The NWS confirmed fatalities from an EF-3 tornado, registering peak winds of 140 mph, which devastated parts of Missouri.
Local reports indicated approximately 300 power outages affecting Tallahassee as the storm approached, creating unease among residents. By 7:45 AM on March 16, outages persisted across 13 different areas within the capital city. National Weather Service meteorologists have confirmed seeing another significant power outage, especially following radar-indicated tornado warnings issued for surrounding counties.
Mitchell County, Georgia, has faced extensive damage and is currently working to assess the aftermath of the storms. Buildings, power lines, and personal properties have reportedly sustained serious harm following severe weather on the morning of March 16.
Weather authorities had stated, "The timing is terrible, but this serves as a reminder to have multiple ways to receive weather updates," as the Tallahassee NOAA Weather Radio faced technical difficulties and was rendered temporarily unavailable. Residents are urged to check their mobile devices to receive updates and alerts from local weather agencies.
At dawn on March 16, heavy rainfall has been predicted, coupled with lightning and potential thunder, as the powerful squall line pushes through Tallahassee. Potential wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph alongside quarter-sized hail could create dangerous conditions as people begin their day.
National Weather Service forecasts call for the heaviest weather impacts between 5:30 AM and 9 AM on March 16, coinciding with the midday commute and daily routines. Residents are advised to move indoors to wait out the storm, especially those with safety protocols established. Alerts from Leon County Emergency Management stress the need to find secure places away from windows and to stay informed through various channels.
Emergency alerts have already been mobilized. Leon County Emergency Management recently issued alerts reminding residents to prepare for severe weather overnight, supporting the emphasis on seeking shelter. Those outside or commuting should pursue nearby sturdy shelter immediately and stay indoors for 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
The risk remains high, with tornado watches extended to local counties, including Leon County. This evening, coastal areas and central Florida are not free from the belt of severe storms, unable to exonerate against the underlying weather systems. The NWS is actively monitoring and issuing alerts until conditions change.
Local authorities urge communities to practice safety measures as storm threats persist. Local residents should engage with family and practice emergency plans, including safe meeting locations and communication pathways. Be weather-aware and maintain awareness to make informed decisions during severe weather.
With heavy rains predicted, the potential for flash flooding exists. Residents should brace for downed trees and power outages, significantly affecting areas already drenched. Flooding is considered less of a threat compared to the wind damage risks, yet soil saturation may amplify hazards.
Authorities are expected to conduct assessments as soon as the squall line pushes through, enabling first responders to respond efficiently to emergency calls. This storm system is expected to continue moving eastward, prompting severe weather alerts across the region.
Residents should stay focused on updates and remain aware of changing weather conditions as they navigate the night's challenges. Communities across the Big Bend and southern Georgia are reminded to remain vigilant and practice preparedness as this significant weather system advances, shaping up to be one of the strongest storms of 2025.