The National Weather Service in Jacksonville has confirmed that an EF-1 tornado with estimated wind speeds of 110 miles per hour passed through Marion County on Saturday morning.
The tornado touched down near Dunnellon at around 7:45 a.m. and traveled east for 25 miles until it reached Ocala shortly after 8 a.m. According to the National Weather Service, the tornado had a width of 65 yards.
The City of Ocala is continuing to evaluate the damage that was caused by the severe weather. The following images are from various locations throughout the city:
The City of Ocala is working closely with emergency management services including the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Ocala Police Department, Ocala Fire Rescue, and Ocala Electric Utility.
MCSO is offering blue tarps for anyone who was impacted by the severe weather. The tarps can be picked up at the Sheriff’s Office Multi-Purpose Room (attached to the County Jail visitation center) located at 3300 NW 10th Street in Ocala.
The Marion County Division of Emergency Management has activated the Citizen Information Line. Citizens with questions or concerns can call the information line at 352-369-7500, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The information line will remain open daily until it is no longer needed.
A temporary shelter has been established for those who may have been displaced by the severe weather activity. The temporary shelter can be found at Central Christian Church located at 3010 NE 14th Street in Ocala.
An American Red Cross representative is also available at the temporary shelter.