The Bahamas Department of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Grand Bahama and Abaco from 2:55pm edt until 5:00pm edt, Friday.

A severe thunderstorm watch is now in effect for Grand Bahama, Abaco, their surrounding cays and adjacent waters.

At 2:50 pm edt radar and satellite data indicated numerous clusters of strong thunderstorms pushing eastward from the Florida coast toward the watch area.

Some of these thunderstorms will be severe at times causing strong gusty winds, dangerous lightning, heavy downpours and possible waterspout or tornadic activity.

Boaters in the watch area should seek safe harbour and residents in the watch area should remain indoors and away from windows when conditions worsen.

Residents should also protect themselves in flood prone areas.