The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for central and southern portions of Florida on Thursday, including Brevard and Osceola counties.

Strong showers and thunderstorms are expected in Orlando this afternoon and into Friday morning, bringing heavy rain, wind and the threat of severe lightning, according to the NWS.

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A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornado and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.

The tornado watch for Osceloa, Brevard, Indian River, Okeechobee, Saint Lucie and Martin Counties is in effect through 8 p.m. Thursday.