St. Johns County Sheriff: Possible Tornado Visible On Recent Traffic Camera Footage

Michael

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Post on Jun 01, 2025

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St. Johns County Sheriff: Possible Tornado Visible on Recent Traffic Camera Footage

St. Johns County, FL – Residents of St. Johns County are buzzing after Sheriff Robert Hardwick released footage showing what appears to be a tornado touching down near County Road 210. The grainy but compelling video, captured by a traffic camera, has sparked intense interest and raised concerns about the potential for severe weather in the area.

The brief video clip, shared on the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office (SJCSO) social media channels late yesterday, shows a swirling vortex descending from dark storm clouds. While the footage is not crystal clear, the visual evidence strongly suggests the formation of a tornado, albeit a relatively small one. The Sheriff's office has confirmed they are investigating the incident and coordinating with the National Weather Service (NWS) to determine the exact nature of the weather event.

"While we can't definitively confirm it was a tornado without further investigation," Sheriff Hardwick stated in a press release, "the video is certainly concerning and warrants further examination. We urge residents to remain vigilant during severe weather and to heed all warnings issued by the NWS."

Investigating the Potential Tornado

The NWS Jacksonville office has acknowledged the video and indicated they are analyzing the footage along with radar data and eyewitness reports from the area. Determining whether the swirling vortex was indeed a tornado requires a meticulous investigation, often involving analyzing the damage path (if any), wind speeds, and the overall meteorological conditions at the time.

This incident highlights the importance of severe weather preparedness in St. Johns County. The area, while generally enjoying a milder climate, is not immune to the occasional severe thunderstorm or tornado.

Staying Safe During Severe Weather

The SJCSO and the NWS jointly recommend the following steps to ensure safety during severe weather events:

• Develop a family emergency plan: Know where to gather during a storm and have an escape route planned.
• Stay informed: Monitor weather reports closely through reliable sources like the National Weather Service and local news channels. Sign up for weather alerts on your phone.
• Have a supply kit ready: Keep essential items such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit readily accessible.
• Seek shelter immediately: If a tornado warning is issued for your area, seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building or underground. Avoid windows and stay away from exterior walls.
• Understand tornado safety: Learn the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A watch means conditions are favorable for tornado formation, while a warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.

The investigation into the possible tornado near County Road 210 is ongoing. We will update this article as more information becomes available from the NWS and the SJCSO. In the meantime, remember to prioritize safety and remain prepared for potential severe weather. For more information on severe weather safety, visit the National Weather Service website:

Keywords: St. Johns County, Florida, tornado, Sheriff Robert Hardwick, severe weather, National Weather Service, NWS Jacksonville, County Road 210, traffic camera footage, weather safety, emergency preparedness, tornado warning, tornado watch.