Tornado Watch issued for Sanibel and all of Lee County until 10 pm by National Weather Service
A Tornado Watch was released at 2:40 pm. by the National Weather Service and will be in effect until 10pm. An area of strong thunderstorms about 40 miles southwest of Sanibel is moving northeast toward Lee County. The upper levels of the atmosphere are becoming increasingly hostile, with winds veering and increasing in speed. As these storms move across our area between 4 and 7pm, some of the downpours could tap into these upper level winds resulting in local wind damage or tornadoes/waterspouts.
News Release - For Immediate Release
October 18, 2011
City of Sanibel, FL
Contact: Sanibel Police Department – Chief Bill Tomlinson(239) 472-3111
Tornado Watch issued for Sanibel and all of Lee County until 10 pm by National Weather Service
A Tornado Watch was released at 2:40 pm. by the National Weather Service and will be in effect until 10pm. An area of strong thunderstorms about 40 miles southwest of Sanibel is moving northeast toward Lee County. The upper levels of the atmosphere are becoming increasingly hostile, with winds veering and increasing in speed. As these storms move across our area between 4 and 7pm, some of the downpours could tap into these upper level winds resulting in local wind damage or tornadoes/waterspouts.
A Tornado Watch means that conditions are right for Tornado activity in your immediate area. You are advised to closely monitor the local weather on television and radio. If a Tornado Warning is issued please follow the following safety tips.
Go to an inside room without windows on the lowest level of the house (a closet, bathroom, or interior hall). Protect your body from flying debris with a heavy blanket or sleeping bag.
Avoid windows. Opening windows to equalize pressure is ineffective in reducing damage during a tornado. Don't worry about the windows: worry about finding shelter and protecting yourself.