Storms, Strong Winds Likely As Cold Front Moves In

Tampa Bay area residents are being warned to brace for a potentially wet, windy and chilly weekend as a cold front moves into the area.

While freezing temperatures are not anticipated, the National Weather Service in Ruskin has issued a lake wind advisory for the entire region and warns that storms are likely in the evening hours Friday and throughout much of Saturday.

“Thunderstorms are expected ahead of a cold front nearing the area today and tonight,” the weather service’s hazardous weather report for Friday stated. “Thunderstorms that develop will be capable of producing gusty winds, locally heavy rains and deadly lightning strikes.”

Isolated strong thunderstorms are also possible, mainly in the northern part of the Tampa Bay region, the service reports.

Rip currents are possible along Bay area beaches Friday and Saturday as the front moves through. Boaters on lakes are also warned that a lake wind advisory is in effect throughout the region from 10 a.m. Friday until 7 p.m. Saturday.

Lake wind advisories are issued when sustained winds are anticipated to range between 20 and 29 mph with frequent gusts near or above gale force.

“Winds of these magnitudes will create rough conditions on larger area lakes, which could produce damage to or flip small pleasure craft,” the advisory reads. With that in mind, outdoor lovers are advised to postpone lake activities until the weather turns for the better.

As far as temperatures go, Friday is expected to log a high in the upper 70s with a low in the mid-60s. Saturday brings cooler temperatures with a high only in the upper 60s and a low around 45.

Sunday is expected to be sunny with a high in the mid-60s and a low in the lower 50s.

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

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