TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Chief Meteorologist Mike McCall has declared Tuesday as a First Alert Weather Day due to the increasing threat of severe weather in the morning hours. The primary concern is the potential for severe wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph inland, and up to 60 mph along the coast, with an increasing risk of a few tornadoes.

According to the latest model guidance from Monday morning, a line of strong to severe storms is expected to enter the WCTV viewing area around 9 am Eastern. By 10:30 am Eastern, the line should progress into Thomas, Leon, and Wakulla Counties, where the threat of tornadoes and intense winds will persist.

By noon on Tuesday, the storms are predicted to be close to exiting the eastern part of the viewing area. However, the eastern portion of the Big Bend and South Georgia can still expect the threat of tornadoes and severe wind conditions. Fortunately, the severe weather impacts will be over for the rest of the western and central parts of the viewing area.

To ensure residents stay weather-aware during this event, it is recommended to download the FREE WCTV First Alert Weather App. The app provides access to vital information such as radar, severe weather and lightning alerts, current conditions, hour-by-hour forecasts, and a reliable seven-day forecast.

For up-to-date news developments, follow WCTV on Facebook and X (Twitter). Stay informed on all the significant headlines through the WCTV News app.

Residents are advised to exercise caution and stay tuned to local weather updates as the potential for severe weather increases throughout Tuesday morning.