By Joe Callahan
The Marion and Alachua County area is at “enhanced” risk, which means wind up to 70 mph is possible, as well as isolated tornadoes.
The National Weather Service is warning that this part of Florida could see extreme weather on Friday and that residents can expect dangerous wind and the threat of tornadoes.
Officials in the Jacksonville weather office said an area between Gainesville and Ocala could receive the worst of the thunderstorms from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., while southern Marion County is expected to feel the brunt through 6 p.m.
Weather service officials placed Alachua and Marion counties on the third level of a five-tier scale for severe weather. The area is at “enhanced” risk, which means wind up to 70 mph is possible, as well as isolated tornadoes.
“Numerous severe storms are possible,” the alert says.
Preston Bowlin, Marion County emergency management director, reported via email Wednesday night that his office will be monitoring the situation until the threat leaves the area.
https://radar.weather.gov/ridge/Conus/southeast_loop.phpJoe Callahan can be reached at 867-4113 or at joe.callahan@starbanner.com. Following him on Twitter @JoeOcalaNews.