Wind Warnings Go Up Around the Bay

Tampa Bay area residents might want to grab those umbrellas before they head out the door Monday and secure loose items around their yards.

The National Weather Service is forecasting a 70 percent chance of rain throughout the Bay as a cold front makes its way through the region. Storms are likely throughout the day Monday, but are anticipated to pass in the evening hours.

While rain is expected to dampen the start of the workweek, forecaster say area residents should also brace for some strong winds of up to 30 mph with some stronger gusts anticipated. The agency has issued both a rip current statement and high surf advisory that remain in effect until 7 a.m. Tuesday for the entire Tampa Bay area. A lake wind advisory has also been issued for the region. That warning expires at 6 p.m. Monday.

Rip currents are strong channels of water that can pull swimmers away from shore with their force. The weather service says there is a high risk of rip current development along coastal beaches Monday and Tuesday. As for boaters, waves of up to 7 feet are anticipated along the coast and up to 11 feet offshore Monday and into Tuesday. Conditions on the Bay area’s lakes are also expected to be rough as the cold front moves through with rough, choppy waters likely.

Those venturing out to Bay area lakes and beaches are urged to exercise caution and heed lifeguard warnings.

Monday’s high is expected to only reach about 65 with a low down into the upper 40s. Tuesday brings a higher chance for sunshine with similar temperatures anticipated.

Wednesday is likely to be the chilliest day of the week with sunshine and high of around 63 expected. Overnight lows should drop to about 45 degrees.

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

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