SUMMARY: Severe storms in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia have raised lightning safety concerns after two Ware County teens, Joey Nelson Jr. and Randall Martin III, died while fishing. Within 24 hours, a lightning strike ignited a house fire in St. Johns County, though no one was home. Another strike at St. Augustine Beach Pier hospitalized two individuals, one seriously. Mayor Dylan Rumrell urged caution during thunderstorms, emphasizing the importance of seeking shelter when thunder is heard. The National Weather Service reports over 500 U.S. lightning deaths since 2006, with fishing as the leading risky activity. They advise avoiding tall trees and using enclosed shelters during storms.

Read the full article

The post NWS, local officials give lightning safety advice after 2 killed, 2 more hospitalized from strikes in recent days appeared first on www.news4jax.com

SUMMARY: A local church in Ruskin is addressing fear among its Hispanic parishioners caused by recent ICE raids and deportations. About half of Saint Ann Catholic Church’s congregation identifies as Hispanic, many anxious about being questioned or detained. Father Kevin invited an expert to educate parishioners on their rights if stopped by immigration agents to ease their worries. While Homeland Security emphasizes targeting violent criminals and urges unauthorized immigrants to self-deport, community members call for more flexibility toward those seeking better lives. Father Kevin stresses that faith calls for compassion and safety for all, regardless of political views.

A Ruskin pastor says ICE raids are hitting close to home for some Hispanic parishioners. He says some are even scared to go the church. The Diocese is now training clergy on how to respond.

Source

SUMMARY: South Florida is preparing for heavy rains and potential flooding starting Monday afternoon, with rainfall expected to continue for several days. After a humid and mostly dry morning, rain will begin around 2-3 p.m., intensifying during rush hour. The National Hurricane Center notes a 20% chance of tropical development in the northern Gulf, which will pull tropical moisture into Florida, increasing rainfall. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Level 2 flash flood threat for the entire area. Temperatures are already high with significant humidity, so residents are advised to stay hydrated and prepare for extended wet weather through Thursday.

A tropical trough moving across the Florida Peninsula will pull moisture across the state leading to significant rainfall in southeast Florida.

For video licensing inquiries, contact: licensing@veritone.com

Source