The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Tornado Watch for parts of Florida. The watch is in effect until 5 PM CDT today for the following counties: Escambia, Okaloosa, and Santa Rosa.

This watch includes the cities of Crestview, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Gulf Breeze, Niceville, Pensacola, and others in the affected counties.

A Tornado Watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Residents in the affected areas should be prepared for the possibility of tornadoes and other severe weather.

In case of an emergency, dial 911. Follow the guidance provided by the National Weather Service (NWS) and local authorities. To stay safe, identify a safe place in your home, such as a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, where you can take shelter if a tornado warning is issued. Additionally, stay informed by monitoring local weather updates and having multiple ways to receive weather alerts.