Short, sharp storms muscled into the Florida Keys on Wednesday, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a special weather statement for Monroe County that warned of pea-sized hail and radar-indicated wind gusts up to about 55 mph. The advisory, in effect through 6 p.m. EDT, urged residents and visitors to hunker down while fast-moving cells rolled through South Florida with heavy downpours and sudden bursts of wind.
A special weather statement has been issued for Monroe County, FL until 6:00 PM EDT https://t.co/fIAr1DUTR6
— NWS Miami (@NWSMiami) June 24, 2026
What the Alert Includes
The message from NWS Miami on X flagged “pea-sized hail” and radar-indicated gusts near 55 mph, and advised people to “seek shelter in a sturdy structure” until the storms ease. Forecasters stressed that the strongest storm cores pose the main concern and urged extra caution for anyone caught outdoors or on the water while the statement remains in effect.
Why That Matters for the Keys
Winds in the mid-50s can knock down small tree limbs, send unsecured items tumbling and trigger isolated power outages, while pea-sized hail can briefly cut visibility and leave dings on vehicles when it comes down hard. That impact language mirrors the wording used in Miami’s emergency products, which warn that gusty winds could “knock down small tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects,” a reminder of the localized damage residents should be ready for. For the official text of similar advisories, see the National Weather Service Miami.
Safety Tips for Residents and Boaters
If you are on land, bring lightweight outdoor furniture inside, skip sheltering under trees during gusty storms and stay away from windows until the cells pass. Boaters are urged to seek safe harbor and avoid exposed waters until conditions settle, guidance that lines up with the local forecast office.
Official marine and local details are available from NWS Key West. Conditions can shift quickly, so keep an eye on rapid updates from the Miami forecast office and local broadcasters. The latest statements, radar imagery and marine products are posted on the NWS Miami site.
