UPDATE: The tornado watch has been extended until 8 p.m.

TIFTON — A tornado watch is in effect for Tift County until 8 p.m. today, according to the National Weather Service.

A tornado watch is issued when there are weather conditions favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes.

A tornado warning is issued when tornadoes are imminent or occurring.

There is no tornado warning at this time.

Along with possible tornadoes, severe storms and “very large hail” are possible today, according to the NWS.

Damaging winds up to 70 mph are also possible, according to the NWS.

Tift County’s risk of severe weather is listed as “Moderate,” the fourth point on the NWS’ five-point scale.

While the timing of the storm is “highly uncertain,” it is expected to hit Tift County this afternoon, with 3-6 p.m. the most likely time, according to the NWS.