A tornado watch has been issued for large parts of Florida, Alabama and Georgiaas a volatile weather system moves through the southeastern United States, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The watch, identified as Tornado watch no. 4remains in effect to 6:00 PM CST on SundaysJanuary 25, 2026, and includes both inland provinces and adjacent coastal waters.
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center confirmed that conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes, damaging winds and large hail about the affected areas. Tornado watches indicate that severe weather is possible and residents should remain alert and be prepared to act quickly if warnings are issued.
In Floridathe watch covers several provinces in the northwestern regionincluded Bay, Escambia, Holmes, Jackson, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton, Washington, Calhoun and Gulf-adjacent areas. Cities like Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, Milton, Niceville and Gulf Breeze fall within the surveillance area. Coastal areas, including Pensacola Bay and Choctawhatchee Bayare also included, highlighting potential risks to marine and coastal communities.
In Alabamathe watch tensions central and southern provincesincluded Barbour, Russell, Covington, Baldwin, Montgomery, Houston, Escambia and Genevaamong others. Communities like Eufaula, Phoenix City, Andalusia and Opp are advised to closely monitor weather updates as storms intensify during the afternoon.
Georgia is the third state affectedwith a wide strip of southwest and central provinces under supervision. Areas included Muscogee, Dougherty, Lee, Decatur, Sumter, Terrell, Worth and Baker counties face increased risk as the storm system moves eastward.
According to the National Weather Service, the atmospheric setup includes strong wind shear and unstable aira combination that significantly increases tornado potential. “Tornado Watch 4 remains in effect tonight until 6:00 PM CST for the following areas:” the National Weather Service stated in its official county notice, urging residents to stay informed about the weather.
Officials emphasize that a tornado watch is different from a warning. A watch means that conditions are favorablewhile a warning indicates that a tornado has been sighted or detected by radar. Residents are encouraged to review safety plans, identify shelters and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor the system and advises the public to follow updates Weather.gov and local NWS offices. As storms develop rapidly, preparedness and timely response remain critical to minimizing risks in the Southeast.
