Which areas of Florida are under tornado watch on May 2, 2026?

Geographic Coverage

The tornado watch encompasses eight counties across central, west-central, and northern Florida. The affected counties are Hillsborough, Polk, Sumter, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, and Levy. The watch also includes coastal waters from Tarpon Springs to Suwannee River. Major population centers under the watch include Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Lakeland, Winter Haven, and numerous other municipalities across the region.

Timing and Duration

The National Weather Service issued Tornado Watch 183 at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026, and it remains in effect until 6:00 p.m. EDT that same day. The seven-and-a-half hour watch window allows residents time to prepare and stay alert throughout the afternoon and early evening.

Expected Weather Threats

Meteorologists warned that strong thunderstorms moving through the region could produce damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall, and isolated tornadoes. Officials urged residents to monitor weather alerts closely, remain alert, and be prepared to take shelter quickly if tornado warnings are issued. Drivers were advised to use caution due to reduced visibility and the potential for localized flooding in low-lying areas.