Update 10:35 a.m.:
The National Weather Service has canceled the severe thunderstorm warning in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property, according to the NWS. Gusty winds are still possible with this storm, and the tornado watch remains in effect.
Original story:
The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for Escambia, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties at 9:50 a.m. on Thursday. It will be in effect until noon.
A severe thunderstorm warning was also issued in southeastern Escambia and southern Santa Rosa counties. The warning will be in effect until 10:45 a.m. on Thursday.
A severe thunderstorm was located over Elberta, Alabama, about 5 miles northeast of Foley, moving east at 50 mph, according to the NWS radar. Expected hazards include 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-sized hail.
The NWS warned that residents should stay alert for possible tornadoes, which can quickly spin up during severe thunderstorms.
Large hail, damaging wind and continuous cloud-to-ground lightning are occurring with this storm. The NWS recommends moving indoors immediately.
Pensacola will see the storms sweep over the area late Thursday morning. Unfortunately, it won’t be the end of stormy weather for the Panhandle just yet as showers and thunderstorms remain in the forecast through Sunday.
Pensacola hourly forecast
Pensacola severe weather radar
Pensacola severe weather alerts, watches and warnings
