Weather
Tornado Hits Lake Mary Area North of Orlando
Orlando, Fla. – Severe storms swept through Central Florida on Monday morning, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and multiple tornado warnings across the Orlando area.
A radar-confirmed tornado touched down along Interstate 4 in Lake Mary at approximately 9:30 a.m., causing structural damage, downed trees, and power outages. Officials report that around 3,500 residents are without power as a result of the storm.
West of Lake Mary, storm-related damage was reported at the Sweetwater Clubhouse tennis courts north of Wekiva Springs Road, where trees were downed.
Further damage assessments are underway in surrounding areas.
Seminole County Fire Rescue confirmed that emergency crews were assisting with storm damage along the 2100 block of Blue Iris Place.
According to meteorologist Noah Bergren, preliminary assessments suggest that the tornado was likely an EF0 or possibly a brief EF1, with estimated touchdown near Lake Mary Boulevard on the city’s west side.
Seminole County Emergency Management spokesperson Alan Harris reported multiple instances of structural damage, including a collapsed home and overturned vehicles.
Additionally, downed trees and power lines have made several roadways impassable.
As of Monday morning, no injuries had been reported. However, authorities continue to urge caution as cleanup efforts begin.
“Do not go outside right now,” Harris advised in a public statement. “Stay in your home or business until conditions improve.”
The tornado formed as a result of an intense storm system moving across Central Florida, which brought heavy downpours, gusty winds, and the potential for additional tornado activity.
Meteorologists anticipate that the storms will move quickly through the region, with rainfall expected to taper off by early to mid-afternoon.
A Tornado Watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.
It does not guarantee that a tornado will occur but serves as an alert for residents to remain vigilant.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a severe thunderstorm is classified as one that produces winds of 58 mph or higher and/or hail measuring one inch in diameter or larger.
Officials continue to monitor weather conditions and encourage residents to stay informed through local news outlets and emergency alerts.
Weather
Flash Flood Emergency declared for Little Rock, Arkansas
Life-Threatening Flooding Ongoing Across Central Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK, AR — A Flash Flood Emergency has been declared for the Little Rock metro area as a Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) continues to unfold across Central Arkansas.
The National Weather Service has issued an urgent warning as catastrophic flooding is either ongoing or imminent in areas including Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Benton, Cabot, and Searcy.
Current Conditions
- Over 7 inches of rain have fallen in some areas today, with Little Rock alone receiving more than 4 inches in a matter of hours.
- Rain gauges across Central Arkansas are reporting between 6 to 10 inches of rainfall from this slow-moving, training line of thunderstorms.
- Up to 15 inches of rainfall is possible in isolated areas by Sunday, which will lead to life-threatening flash flooding and major river flooding.
Impacted Areas
- Low-lying neighborhoods, urban centers, and areas near rivers and creeks are experiencing rapid rises in water levels.
- Numerous flash flood incidents have already been reported, and more than 100 emergency calls related to high water have been logged.
- Major river flooding is expected along the Arkansas, White, and Spring Rivers, with some communities potentially reaching record crest levels.
Infrastructure Impact
- North Hills Boulevard has multiple trees down, including a large tree blocking both lanes in front of The Lakewood House.
- 5 Mile Creek is nearing overflow onto nearby roadways.
- Numerous roads are impassable due to high water, and vehicles have already become stranded.
Weather Threats
- While the severe weather threat has passed for Texarkana, Little River, Sevier, Howard, Pike, Hempstead, Miller, Polk, Montgomery, and Scott counties, flooding remains a major concern.
- Additional tropical downpours are likely, bringing the risk of renewed or worsening flash flooding.
- Areas east and south of Little Rock remain under threat for severe storms, including the potential for tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail.
Public Safety Alerts & What You Must Do:
- DO NOT drive through flooded roads. It only takes six inches of moving water to knock you off your feet and less than two feet to carry away most vehicles.
- If you live near a river, creek, or low-lying area—prepare immediately. Move to higher ground if possible and secure valuables.
- Monitor official weather alerts closely. Follow instructions from local emergency management and the National Weather Service.
- Do not leave your home unless absolutely necessary. Emergency services are stretched thin, and rescue resources should not be diverted for avoidable situations.
This is a life-threatening emergency.
The term Flash Flood Emergency is reserved for only the most severe flooding scenarios. Please take this seriously, stay off the roads, and protect yourself and your family.
For real-time updates, tune in to local weather stations or follow the National Weather Service – Little Rock and Arkansas Division of Emergency Management on social media.