Hurricane Isaias: Tornado watch issued for Marion County until 9 p.m.

A tornado watch has been issued for Marion County until 9 p.m. Friday as Hurricane Isaias approaches landfall in Florida’s western Panhandle.The watch includes Ocala and Belleview. Follow Channel 9’s live updates on Hurricane Isaias here.Forecasters said the threat of isolated tornadoes is increasing across far northwestern portions of Central Florida.A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes. It does not mean a tornado has been detected.Residents should remain alert and be prepared to seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued. The safest location is an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.Central Florida is not expected to experience a direct hit from Hurricane Isaias, but outer rainbands could produce fast-moving showers, thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes.Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.