Rip Current Risk Grows as Cold Front Moves into Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay residents are being warned to exercise caution at the beaches Tuesday as an approaching cold front is expected to raise the risk for rip currents while also delivering a strong chance for storms throughout the coastal region and into the inland areas.

The National Weather Service has issued a rip current statement that remains in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday for the coastal areas of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties.

“Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing quickly away from shore,” the statement explains. “Rip currents are very dangerous and can pull even the strongest swimmers out into deeper water.”

There is a moderate risk of rip currents developing at area beaches Tuesday, forecasters say.

Those who find themselves caught in a rip current are advised to stay calm as possible.

“Swim parallel to the shore,” the weather service advises. “Once you are away from the force of the rip current, begin to swim back to the beach. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current.”

While rip currents are localized to the coastal areas, forecasters also anticipate thunderstorms to move into the entire Tampa Bay area today, including Pasco County. The chance of thunderstorms during the daytime, mainly after 3 p.m., and evening hours is set at 60 percent as the cold front makes its way here.

As the storms move in, Tuesday’s high temperature is only anticipated to reach the mid-80s mark. Wednesday is also expected to bring some storms with a 50 percent chance set during the daytime hours. By Wednesday night, forecasters expect the storms to move out and cooler temperatures to move in. The forecast for Thursday calls for a high around 81 and a low down to about 61.

For a complete look at Bay area weather, visit the National Weather Service online.

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