Headline:
Special Weather Statement issued August 18 at 6:19PM EDT by NWS Jacksonville FL
Event:
Special Weather Statement
Urgency:
Expected
Effective:
August 18, 2026 - 3:19pm
Expires:
August 18, 2026 - 4:00pm
Description:
At 619 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a cluster of strong
thunderstorms near Raiford, moving south at 10 mph.
HAZARD...Wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph, nickel size hail, excessive
cloud-to-ground lightning, and minor flooding due to heavy
rainfall.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is
possible. Minor flooding due to heavy rainfall is possible.
Excessive cloud-to-ground lightning is occurring.
Locations impacted include...
Lake Butler, Raiford, Palestine Community, Groves, Beasley, New
River, Sampson, Ellerbee, Johnstown, and Dukes.
Instruction:
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.
Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.
Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.
Area Description:
Baker; Union; Bradford; Southeastern Columbia
Forcast Office:
NWS Jacksonville FL
Sender:
w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov