A cold front will help trigger scattered gusty thunderstorms throughout the South and Southeast today.
Dry and cooler air behind this front will clash with the warm and humid air already in place throughout much of the South and Southeast. The resulting clash of air masses will fuel strong to locally severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening.
The government’s Storm Prediction Center has issued a Marginal Risk, or a 1 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, from southern Louisiana into Florida and northward into southeastern Virginia. A pair of Slight Risks, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, are found across portions of central and eastern Florida as well as over eastern North Carolina. Some cities at risk for these strong to severe storms today include New Orleans, Orlando, Jacksonville, Fla., Charleston, S.C., Raleigh, N.C., and Virginia Beach, Va.
Damaging wind gusts greater than 60 mph and large hail will be the main impacts from storms today. However, an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, especially near the Gulf coast and over central and eastern Florida.
Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.
The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"