Strong winds and severe thunderstorms are forecasted for Tuesday afternoon and evening throughout Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.

According to a National Weather Service (NWS) release sent Monday, the storms will start after midnight and Tuesday morning and will sweep through locations north of Interstate 10. Severe thunderstorms are predicted to hit across North Central Florida by Tuesday afternoon and into the evening.

Damaging winds, a tornado risk and small hail are expected throughout the area with sustained Southerly winds of 20-35 mph with gusts ranging from 40-50 mph. Tree damage and power outages are possible and the NWS recommends that all outdoor loose objects should be secured. Hazardous crosswinds may also affect high profile vehicles on bridges.

Schools in Alachua, Bradford, Dixie, Levy, Gilchrist, Columbia, Union and Clay counties will be closed on Tuesday.

Other area school districts may close or send students home early.

Editor’s note: This story was updated with school closures.