On March 10, 2025, severe thunderstorms produced significant weather events across central Florida, culminating in the touchdown of an EF2 tornado near Orlando, which caused damage but thankfully no injuries.
WOFL-TV meteorologist Brooks Garner was on air delivering safety advice during the tornado when it struck the TV station located in Lake Mary, about 16 miles northeast of Orlando. “Get to your safe space under your desk. We're catching debris right now on the roof,” he urged viewers as the tornado approached. Garner’s live updates not only informed viewers of the imminent threat but also reassured them with constant communication about the storm’s progression.
The tornado touched down around 9:40 AM EDT, with peak winds recorded at 115 mph, causing catastrophic damage to at least one home, which collapsed completely, and damaging numerous others. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the damage path showed characteristics of both EF1 and EF2 tornadoes, marking this event as particularly intense.
Reports came from various areas affected by the tornado, including Longwood and Lake Mary, where it was observed moving across Interstate 4. A couple traveling on this freeway experienced the potential tornado first-hand but luckily remained unharmed. “We did have a driver and his dog in the semi when it did get flipped by the wind event. They’re both OK, and we’re really grateful for this,” recounted one of the first responders.
The destruction wasn’t limited to homes; numerous trees were downed, and debris littered the streets, prompting the Seminole County Fire Department to urge residents to stay clear from damaged areas. Photos shared on social media showed the chaotic aftermath, including houses shattered and vehicles overturned. During the incident, Garner continued broadcasting live, engaging with viewers beyond the threat’s peak, noting it was his first experience as on-duty meteorologist to be directly confronting such conditions. “This is the most serious situation I’ve been involved with,” he remarked.
Warnings were issued early on across multiple counties, including Seminole, Volusia, and Sarasota, as meteorologists detected unstable weather patterns capable of producing tornadoes. Weather.com senior meteorologist Chris Dolce detailed how significant atmospheric shifts contributed to this environment conducive to severe storms.
Residents reacted on social media as well, with one local named Mike Lever candidly sharing his experience of the storm: “A small tornado hit my neighborhood a few minutes ago—power out and heard stuff hitting against the roof and sides.” His echoing sentiments reflect the collective anxiety felt by many as storms rolled through the region.
The NWS continues to conduct surveys of the affected areas to ascertain the tornado's exact track, longevity, and overall impact. Initial assessments confirmed the EF2 classification, indicative of significant damage capabilities.
Florida typically experiences about 46 tornadoes each year, making these weather events part of life for many residents. Last year, during Hurricane Milton, the state witnessed its highest tornado outbreak, with one storm resulting tragically in the deaths of six people. This recent tornado, though destructive, thankfully resulted without fatalities or severe injuries.
Local officials expressed gratitude for the absence of serious injuries and emphasized the importance of community preparedness during storm season. Although challenges remain with infrastructure and home repair, the resilience of both responders and residents remains strong.
This event serves as another reminder of Florida's volatile weather conditions, where preparedness and awareness can make all the difference. Meteorologists and emergency services are now preparing the public for the possibility of future storms as the changing climate continues to influence weather patterns. The community rallies as cleanup efforts intensify.
Garner concluded his live broadcast affirming the need for vigilance and readiness: “Let’s keep our eyes to the sky. Weather can turn severe quicker than we can anticipate.”