WPTV Forecasts Severe Thunderstorms for South Florida

Meteorologists warn of high winds, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes on Thursday morning.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:47am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, with a dramatic, turbulent sky filling the frame and obscuring the horizon, conveying a sense of the overwhelming power of an approaching severe weather event.A looming storm system threatens to unleash its fury over the coastal communities of South Florida.West Palm Beach Today

WPTV, the NBC-affiliated television station serving West Palm Beach and the surrounding South Florida region, has issued a First Alert Weather Forecast warning residents of an incoming severe thunderstorm system expected to impact the area on the morning of Thursday, April 16, 2026.

Why it matters

Severe weather events can pose significant risks to public safety, infrastructure, and property in coastal communities like West Palm Beach, which are vulnerable to the impacts of heavy rain, high winds, and potential tornadoes. WPTV's early warning allows residents to take necessary precautions.

The details

According to WPTV meteorologists, the thunderstorm system is expected to bring wind gusts up to 70 mph, heavy rainfall of 2-4 inches, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes throughout the morning hours on Thursday. The storm system is being fueled by a strong low-pressure system moving up the Florida peninsula.

  • The severe weather is forecast to arrive in West Palm Beach and surrounding areas around 6 AM on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • The thunderstorms are expected to last through the late morning hours, with the highest risk of tornadoes between 8 AM and 11 AM.

The players

WPTV

The NBC-affiliated television station serving the West Palm Beach, Florida market and surrounding areas.

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What they’re saying

“We're urging all residents in the viewing area to stay weather aware tomorrow morning and have a plan in place in case severe storms develop. This could be a dangerous situation.”

— Steve Weagle, Chief Meteorologist, WPTV

What’s next

WPTV will continue to monitor the storm system and provide regular updates throughout the morning on-air and online. The National Weather Service may also issue tornado watches or warnings for the region.

The takeaway

With the potential for high winds, heavy rain, and even tornadoes, residents in the West Palm Beach area should closely follow weather reports on Thursday morning and be prepared to take shelter if severe storms develop in their neighborhoods.